Stars of the Week
Bauer's Stars of the Week Week of April 13, 2026
Central Star of the Week: Denis Hodas - North Iowa Bulls
Central Division Star of the Week: Denis Hodas, Forward, North Iowa Bulls
Securing his second Central Division Star of the Week honors, Denis Hodas tore it up on the scoresheet in North Iowa’s final regular-season games. The ‘05 skater from Zilina, Slovakia, featured a big nine-point weekend for the Bulls. His domination on the ice kicked off on Friday night with a career first. Hodas first finds twine in the second period while shorthanded in a one-timer fashion. He continues his scoring ways in the third frame, this time on the power play. With 9:51 left in the regulation, Hodas buried another goal in a one-timer fashion, helping to even the contest 3-3. The game eventually moved into overtime, and Hodas would be the hero on the ice. With a little over a minute to go in the extra frame, the 21-year-old scored with a backdoor goal off a feed from Michael Malatino. Hodas skates away with a hat trick and seals the 4-3 overtime win for the Bulls.
Moving into Saturday night, the career-first continues. The 6-foot-1 second-year skater recorded a career-high six-point night. Hodas recorded his first point of the night with a primary assist on Michael Malatino’s tally in the first period. His play-making ways continued in the frame, this time providing the primary assist on Andrej Tomasec’s goal a few minutes later. He wrapped up his first period’s performance with another assist, this time on the power play with the Bulls at the 7:53 minute mark. Moving into the middle frame, the 21-year-old would secure his second power-play assist of the night, this time for Vitaliy Korolyuk’s goal. Hodas would round out his night with two more assists in the final frame. His fifth assist of the night would be notched on Andrej Tomasec’s tally at the 8:59 minute mark in the third period. Hodas’ last assist of the night would be on the last goal of the game. The second-year veteran provided the setup for Denis Kuzmenkov’s power-play goal.
Hodas’ play-making ways ended his weekend with three goals and six assists. He contributed to every goal except two on the weekend for the Bulls. Hodas showed up on the scoresheet in his last seven games as a junior hockey player, securing six multi-point games in that span. He ended his season with 26 goals and 33 assists in 57 games played.
Head coach of the Bulls, Nick Bruneteau, shares how impactful Hodas was this season.
“Denis had a phenomenal finish to the season! He made it impossible to take him off the ice and showcased why he is one of the most talented players in our league. We look forward to watching his future achievements and wish him nothing but the best.”
2nd Star: EJ Paddington, F, Austin Bruins
3rd Star: Mikey Coleman, F, Austin Bruins
Midwest Star of the Week: Oliver Barna - Fairbanks Ice Dogs
Midwest Division Star of the Week: Oliver Barna, Forward, Fairbanks Ice Dogs
The 5-foot-11 forward, securing his third Star of the Week honors this season, Oliver Barna, spotlighted a six-point performance in his last two regular-season games with the Ice Dogs. His offensive dominance kicked off on Friday night at the Big Dipper Ice Arena. The ‘06 skater first showed up on the scoresheet with a primary setup on Mack Diggins’ tally in the opening frame. Four minutes later, Barna would score a goal himself four minutes later for the Ice Dogs. His play-making continued into the third frame, this time providing a secondary assist on Harrison Kaszubowski’s power-play tally. Later on in the contest, Barna would provide one final assist of the night, this one for Luca Ricciardi’s third goal of the night in the final 30 seconds of the matchup. The Ice Dogs skate to a dominant 8-4 victory with the help of a four-point night by the ‘06 skater.
Moving into Saturday night, the Dunaujvaros, Hungary, native got the scoring started with a goal within the first two minutes of the game. He continued his play-making, this time providing the primary assist on Mack Diggins’ tally in the final two minutes of the opening period. Barna secured a two-point night in Fairbanks’ 6-2 win.
For the weekend, Barna spotlighted a six-point performance, tallying two goals and four assists. On his roster, the ‘06 skater leads his team with 32 goals and 69 points, while sitting in second with 37 assists on the season. He ranks first overall as well with his +25 rating on the year. His offensive prowess on the ice ranks him in the top 10 of skaters in the NAHL in goals scored on the season.
Head coach of the Ice Dogs, Dakota Bell, explains how Barna has been a key player for Fairbanks all season.
“Oliver being named star of the week for the final regular season weekend of the year is fitting, as he has been our most consistent scorer this year. Finishing the year with 32 goals and over a point per game in our league is really tough to do. Obviously, Oliver had a great weekend with 6 points in two games, but he’s helped out in so many ways this year in every situation. He played in every single game this season and is worthy of the recognition yet again. We’re excited to see how he helps us as we enter the playoffs!”
2nd Star: Grant Dillard, F, Janesville Jets
3rd Star: Kaenan Smith, F, Janesville Jets
Bauer's Stars of the Week Week of March 31, 2026
Central Star of the Week: Denis Hodas - North Iowa Bulls
Central Division Star of the Week: Denis Hodas, Forward, North Iowa Bulls
The 21-year-old from Zilina, Slovakia, Denis Hodas, featured a dominant five-goal performance last week for the Bulls. Hodas first tallied two goals midweek against the Minnesota Mallards on Wednesday night. The second-year veteran first took advantage of a loose puck at the 5:45 minute mark in the second frame and tied up the game 2-2. The alternate captain would then go on to show up on the scoresheet again, this time on the power play in one-timer fashion. The Bulls would skate to a 4-3 overtime win with his help.
Moving into Friday night, the Bulls were down 3-1 in the final 10 seconds of the night. With a pulled goalie, North Iowa was looking to take advantage with an extra man on the ice. The 6-foot-1 lefty with two seconds on the clock would score in one-timer fashion from the faceoff circle, just like he did on Wednesday night for North Iowa. The Bulls would skate away with a 3-2 loss; however, that push in the final seconds helped to keep the contest tight. Heading into Saturday night, the Bulls would end their Watertown road trip with a bang. A trio of North Iowa goals would be scored in the opening frame, with Hodas finishing out the trio of tallies. With 50 seconds left in the first period, Hodas takes advantage of a turned-over puck in the neutral zone and scores on the Shamrocks. The Slovakia native would show up on the scoresheet once more, this time in the second frame. The 6-foot-1 skater would score in his iconic one-timer fashion while on the power play. The Bulls would eventually skate to a 6-2 win with the help of their alternate captain on the ice.
For the season, Hodas ranks third on his roster with 21 tallies on the year. In addition, the 21-year-old ranks in the top five of skaters with his 44 points on the season.
Head coach of the Bulls, Nick Bruneteau, went into detail on Hodas’ domination on the weekend.
“Denis had an excellent weekend! He has found different ways to generate offense for our group all year. His poise and puck skills have been a big reason why our power play is towards the top of the league, all while continuing to exhibit great leadership.”
2nd Star: Mate Tardi, F, St. Cloud Norsemen
3rd Star: Christian Garrity, F, St. Cloud Norsemen
East Star of the Week: Logan Poulin - Northeast Generals
East Division Star of the Week: Logan Poulin, Forward, Northeast Generals
Earning his second Star of the Week distinction this season, Logan Poulin notched his first junior career hat trick over the weekend with the Generals. The 5-foot-10 forward started his weekend off helping his team to a 5-3 victory on Friday night over the Elmira Aviators. The ‘06 skater gave the Generals their first lead of the night with a power-play tally in the final five minutes of the contest. Poulin’s goal was a snipe from the faceoff circle. His offensive prowess would continue into Saturday night. The Generals’ leading goal-scorer started the scoring with a tally at the 5:27 minute mark of the opening period. He continued his offensive prowess into the second frame, this time scoring from the point with five minutes left on the clock. Poulin would then, 17 seconds later, provide an assist on Rich Rucireto’s tally. Finally, the Massachusetts native would secure a career-first after turning over the Elmira puck. The 5-foot-10 skater found twine on a breakaway while his team was shorthanded. He notched his hat trick with a backhanded tally for Northeast. The Generals skate to a 6-0 shutout win, thanks to Poulin’s four-point night.
For the weekend, Poulin featured five points, tallying four goals while making one assist. His offensive prowess helped to lift his team to a weekend sweep as well. The first-year skater leads his roster with 26 goals on the year, while he sits second with 47 points.
Head coach of the Generals, Bryan Erikson, shares more on what he has seen from Poulin all season.
“Logan has been fantastic all year. He is an elite goal-scorer who continues to develop into a 200-foot player. After this weekend, Logan has 26 goals in 42 games, which is a crazy pace in a full season. He scored the game-winning goal on Friday while on the power play. And then on Saturday, he finished off the hat trick to lead us to victory again. His game is becoming so complete; he plays great on the defensive side of the puck, while being great in transition on the forecheck. He is an elite special teams player. We look forward to Logan continuing to put pucks in the net and playing a smart 200-foot game as we push towards the playoffs.”
2nd Star: Sean Leetch, F, Johnstown Tomahawks
3rd Star: Ryan Denes, G, Maryland Black Bears
Midwest Star of the Week: Joey Hyten - Janesville Jets
Midwest Division Star of the Week: Joey Hyten, Forward, Janesville Jets
The second-year veteran with a highlight-worthy performance, Joey Hyten, helped his team lift the America’s Dairyland Milk Can trophy over the weekend against the Chippewa Steel. Hyten got his weekend started on Friday night with an assist on Murray Marvin-Cordes’ goal less than a minute into the second frame. Following that, Hyten would show up on the scoresheet again, this time finding twine himself while his team was shorthanded. The captain carried his offensive skill set into Saturday night’s game against the Steel. The Illinois native lit the lamp first for the Jets with a power-play tally seven minutes into the contest. His play-making continued in the opening frame when he produced the setup on Hans Hedlund’s goal while the team was on the man advantage. Hyten’s leadership and offensive prowess helped to lead his team to a sweep over the Steel.
For the weekend, Hyten skates away with a four-point performance, tallying two goals and two assists. On his roster, the ‘06 skater leads the team in all offensive categories. He features a team-leading 28 goals, 35 assists, and 63 points. This season, the 6-foot skater was named as a Top Prospect on the Selects White roster for the 2026 Top Prospects Tournament. Hyten played a role in lifting the Selects White team to a victory over the National Development Program. In addition, this recognition marks the second time the Illinois native has been named the Midwest Division Star of the Week.
Head coach of the Jets, Lennie Childs, shares more on why Hyten played a critical role for Janesville this year.
“Joey is the most consistent player I have been on the ice with. His ability to control the game using his skill and compete has been his biggest asset. He is now ranked fifth all-time for the Janesville Jets single-season points record and fourth for all-time goals scored in a season.”
2nd Star: Matt Hauser, D, Minnesota Wilderness
3rd Star: Easton Cody, G, Wisconsin Windgio
South Star of the Week: Leo Isaksson - Lone Star Brahmas
South Division Star of the Week: Leo Isaksson, Forward, Lone Star Brahmas
Playing against an in-state rival, Leo Isaksson played an offensive key in lifting the Brahmas to a sweep over the Odessa Jackalopes. The 6-foot lefty had a big eight-point weekend in his three games played. He started his offensive domination on Friday night at the Ector County Coliseum. He first finds twine on the power play with a one-timer midway through the opening frame. Isaksson would show up on the scoresheet again when he provided the setup for Dylan McFadden’s goal in the final minute of the first period. Moving into the second period, the ‘05 skater notches another assist, this time on Gustav Lexell’s goal with 33 seconds to spare in the middle frame. The Brahmas skate to a 4-2 win thanks to his three points in the contest.
Moving into Saturday night, the Swede would showcase a repeat from the night before by lighting the lamp in one-timer fashion while on the power play. Isaksson, later on, would create scoring opportunities by providing a feed on Jackson Vaites’ goal in the final four minutes of the period. The first-year Brahma would continue on creating scoring chances in the third period, this time on Dylan McFadden’s goal. Isaksson carried the puck from the defensive to the offensive zone on the ice, providing the setup for McFadden’s tally. Isaksson skates to another three-point night, helping his team to a 4-3 victory.
To round out his dominant weekend, Isaksson notched a two-point performance on Sunday afternoon against the Jackalopes. In the opening frame, the first-year forward got the scoring started with a one-timer on the man advantage two minutes into the contest. He would help to extend the Brahmas’ lead later in the game with a primary assist on Jackson Vaites’ goal in the second period. His offensive play-making led to his team skating to a 4-3 win over Odessa.
The Swede finished out the weekend with an eight-point performance, tallying three goals while making five assists. This award marks the second time to be named the South Division Star of the Week this season. He was also named to the South Division roster for the 2026 Top Prospects Tournament this season. In addition, Isaksson has been one of their leading scorers on Lone Star this season. He ranks first with his 54 points and 37 assists, while he sits in second with his 17 goals.
Head coach of the Brahmas, Dan Wildfong, explains why Isaksson is deserving of the award.
“Leo has been playing some of his best hockey the past few weeks. The timing of his performance is just in time for the playoffs. We look forward to him continuing his work on the ice and in his pursuit of a Division I opportunity.”
2nd Star: Sean Gibbons, F, New Mexico Ice Wolves
3rd Star: Charlie Burchfield, F, Shreveport Mudbugs
Bauer's Stars of the Week Week of March 23, 2026
Central Star of the Week: Zach Boren - Watertown Shamrocks
Central Division Star of the Week: Zach Boren, Forward, Watertown Shamrocks
Hailing from West Fargo, North Dakota, Zach Boren had an anything but boring week with the Shamrocks. The 6-foot-1 forward featured five points over his three games played. Kicking things off on Tuesday night, the Shamrocks were hosting their in-state rival, the Aberdeen Wings, for a St. Patty’s Day special. The 20-year-old contributed to all three goals on the scoresheet for the Shamrocks. He first provided an assist on Daniel Halonen’s power-play tally in the second frame. Boren would help to provide a momentum shift in the third period with a power-play goal eight minutes into the frame. Following that goal, the North Dakota native registered an assist on Joe Rice’s goal in the final minutes of the contest. The Shamrocks would eventually fall; however, Boren provided Watertown with the chance throughout the contest.
Boren is a captain of the Shamrocks, skating with the team in their inaugural season in the NAHL. On Friday night, Watertown would lose to the St. Cloud Norsemen in shootout fashion. With revenge on their mind, the Shamrocks delivered a responding performance on Saturday night thanks to Boren on the ice. The third-year NAHL veteran opened the scoring with a power-play tally in the first period. The captain would show up on the scoresheet once again when he gained possession of the puck in the third frame and provided the set-up to Kyle Greene’s goal. The Shamrocks skate away with a 4-1 win, thanks in big part to Boren’s help.
For the week, Boren featured five points, tallying two goals while making three assists. In addition, both of his tallies were scored on the man advantage. This award marks the second time the North Dakota native has been named a Central Division Star of the Week this season. On his roster, he leads his team with 29 goals and 55 points on the year. His work on the ice has been recognized because he was named as a Top Prospect for the Central Division roster at the 2026 Top Prospects Tournament.
Head coach of the Shamrocks, Casey Kirley, shares more on why Boren has been an important factor to the team this season.
“Zach has been instrumental in our success this season. Throughout the year, he has been a consistent producer offensively, and that continued this past week. He not only has a knack for scoring goals but does a good job of reading the ice and setting up his linemates.”
2nd Star: Brody Dustin, F, Aberdeen Wings
3rd Star: Charlie Kresl, F, Bismarck Bobcats
East Star of the Week: Charlie Zetterkvist - Johnstown Tomahawks
East Division Star of the Week: Charlie Zetterkvist, Forward, Johnstown Tomahawks
Earning his first East Division Star of the Week honors is Charlie Zetterkvist with his six-point weekend for the Tomahawks. The 5-foot-11 forward is a second-year veteran of Johnstown, skating over 100 games with the team. On Friday night, Zetterkvist first showed up on the scoresheet with a power-play primary assist on Justin Chiras’ goal in the opening frame. The New Hampshire Mountain Kings would even the scoreboard 3-3 in the second frame, creating an exciting third period. Quickly in the final 20 minutes of regulation, Zetterkvist finds twine to give the Tomahawks the advantage. New Hampshire would battle from behind in the final moments, forcing the contest into overtime and an eventual shootout. The Tomahawks would fall 5-4; however, the second-year Tomahawk played a crucial role in keeping the contest tight.
Moving into Saturday night, the ‘06 lefty featured a career-high performance. The 5-foot-11 forward first showed up on the scoresheet when he carried the puck across the blue line to the Tomahawks’ offensive zone, providing an assist on Jack Sullivan’s goal in the opening frame. Zetterkvist shows up on the scoresheet again when he wins the faceoff, providing the assist on Sullivan’s second goal of the night. Later in the period, the second-year skater would find twine for himself on the power play, twice. He first lights the lamp at the 5:33 minute mark, thanks to a setup by Jack Genovese. Zetterkvist would score again on the man advantage exactly five minutes later to give the Tomahawks their sixth goal of the night. Johnstown would skate away with a 7-4 win, thanks to Zetterkvist's four-point performance.
For the weekend, the second-year veteran featured a six-point performance, tallying three goals and three assists. So far in the month of March, Zetterkvist has scored 10 points over six games played. His offensive work earned him the recognition of being named a Top Prospect for the Selects Blue roster at the 2026 Top Prospects Tournament. For the year, Zetterkvist is one of the top scorers, tallying 24 goals and 18 assists for 42 points.
Geoffrey Beauparlant of the Tomahawks shares more on what it means to see Zetterkvist recognized for his efforts over the weekend.
“We are pleased that Charlie was awarded the Star of the Week honors for the East Division. Charlie is a silent assassin. One of the quietest players on the team, however, his preparation and gameplay do the talking. He just loves to play hockey. His timely scoring and consistency over the past month have helped us climb back into playoff contention.”
2nd Star: Colin Dustin, F, Rochester Jr. Americans
3rd Star: Corson Maguire, F, Elmira Aviators
Midwest Star of the Week: Luc Bydal - Anchorage Wolverines
Midwest Division Star of the Week: Luc Bydal, Forward, Anchorage Wolverines
With no small effort from Luc Bydal over the weekend, the second-year NAHL veteran featured a career-high night while breaking records for the Wolverines. The Long Island commit kicked off his dominant performance on Friday night with a career-high six-point performance against the Kenai River Brown Bears. The 6-foot-2 forward got his night started with a primary power-play assist on Balint Lobenwein’s tally in the opening frame. Moving into the second frame, his offensive prowess continued with back-to-back power-play tallies. Bydal first found twine at the 6:24 minute mark to cut the Anchorage deficit to one. Following that, a minute and a half later, the Grand Forks, North Dakota, native scores from the faceoff circle to even the scoreboard 3-3. Bydal continued his play-making efforts in the second frame when he carried the puck across the blue line into Anchorage’s offensive zone, helping to set up Aiden Lawson’s goal. With the lead now, Anchorage continued into the final frame and continued their scoring efforts. With 6:14 left on the clock, Bydal provides the primary setup for his little brother’s tally. 20 seconds later, Bydal would secure his final point of the night, notching the assist on Cale Quamme’s goal. He ended his night with six points on the scoresheet, lifting his team to an 8-5 victory.
Moving into Saturday night, the Wolverines were looking to continue their winning ways against the Brown Bears. The ‘05 lefty showed up on the scoresheet twice in the opening period. Bydal first finds twine seven minutes into the contest, extending the Wolverines’ lead. He would finish out the frame with a power-play tally from the faceoff dot to give Anchorage the 4-0 advantage. The Wolverines would eventually skate away with a 5-1 win, thanks to Bydal's offensive prowess on the ice. With the two goals from the contest, Bydal etched his name into the Wolverines’ record book. He now holds the single-season record of 40 goals.
For the weekend, Bydal featured eight points, tallying four goals while making four assists. Three of his four goals were scored on the man advantage, and Saturday night's goal was named the decider. The Long Island commit leads the league with 40 goals and sits fourth overall amongst skaters with 77 points. This award marks the second time he has been named the Midwest Division Star of the Week. In addition, this season, he was also named as December’s Forward of the Month.
Head coach of the Wolverines, Mike Aikens, went into detail on the impact Bydal has had for the Wolverines recently and what record he has broken during his time with Anchorage.
“Luc had a huge eight-point weekend in two big games for us as we push for the playoffs. He’s been a big part of our team's success during the run we have been on. Over the weekend, he broke Talon Sigurdson’s single-season goal-scoring record and is also now the Wolverines’ all-time leading scorer.”
2nd Star: Noah Dziver, F, Minnesota Wilderness
3rd Star: Zach Stahl, G, Chippewa Steel
South Star of the Week: Michael Modelski - El Paso Rhinos
South Division Star of the Week: Michael Modelski, Goaltender, El Paso Rhinos
Featuring another marquee performance between the pipes, Michael Modelski spotlights back-to-back nights of domination in the blue paint. The 6-foot-1 netminder has continued to help put his team in the hunt for a bye in the South Division play-in series with his work in the crease. He kicked off his impressive weekend on Friday night with a 28-save shutout against the New Mexico Ice Wolves. During that contest, Modelski also notched an assist on Gabe Giblin’s power-play tally in the second frame. The last time the New Boston, Michigan native produced a shutout was against the Lone Star Brahmas on February 20, 2026, with a 36-save performance.
The first-year netminder continued his defensive dominance into Saturday night at the El Paso County Event Center, this time turning aside 36 out of 37 shots on net. The lone goal was scored with 5:21 left in the contest following a turnover forced by the Ice Wolves. Thanks to Modelski’s help, the Rhinos skated away with a weekend sweep and key points for South Division playoff purposes.
For the weekend, the Michigan native featured a 0.50 goals-against average and .985 save percentage. This award marks the second time he has been recognized as a South Division Star of the Week. Modelski was also recently recognized as February’s Goaltender of the Month for his work in the crease. On the season, the first-year goaltender leads the league with his .939 save percentage, while ranking fourth overall with his 2.08 goals-against average in his 29 games played. In addition, Modelski was named as a Top Prospect on the South Division roster for the 2026 Top Prospects Tournament.
Head coach of the Rhinos, Mike Rivera, explains why Modelski is deserving of this honor.
“Mo undoubtedly earned the honor after his performance this past weekend. He was lights out between the pipes and added an assist to help secure two wins. New Mexico is a good team, and to keep them scoreless through five periods is nothing short of impressive.”
2nd Star: Jake Boulanger, F, Amarillo Wranglers
3rd Star: Trace Day, F, Oklahoma Warriors
Bauer's Stars of the Week Week of March 16, 2026
Central Star of the Week: Adam Dybal - Aberdeen Wings
Central Division Star of the Week: Adam Dybal, Goaltender, Aberdeen Wings
The 6-foot-2 netminder from Ostrava, Czechia, Adam Dybal, dominated between the pipes over the weekend. The Wings are in the hunt for a playoff push, and Dybal delivered against a top Central Division opponent, the Bismarck Bobcats. Kicking things off on Friday night, Aberdeen was the visitor, and the team was looking to extend their winning ways against the Bobcats. Bismarck snatched the lead with a late first-period goal and a tally midway through the second frame. However, following those two goals, the Wings got to work offensively, and Dybal spotlighted a come-from-behind victory in the blue paint. Aberdeen evens the scoreboard with a tally in the second frame and halfway through the third period. With the contest tied, the game would move into overtime and an eventual shootout. Dybal would take the victory in the shootout, helping to lift his team to a 3-2 victory, thanks to his 36-save performance.
Moving into Saturday night, the ‘05 netminder featured a season-best performance in the crease. The matchup kicked off with Bismarck striking first with a goal midway through the first frame. However, following that early lead, Dybal would dominate and be perfect in net for Aberdeen. The Wings would score four goals over the second and third period to help skate away with a decisive 4-1 win. The second-year goaltender spotlighted a season-best .973 save percentage, stopping 36 shots.
For the weekend, Dybal notched a .960 save percentage and 1.44 goals-against average. The series against Bismarck marked the first lone weekend sweep between the pipes this season. His work on the ice this season earned him the recognition of being named a Top Prospect for the Central Division roster this season. For the year, Dybal features a 2.56 goals-against average and a .906 save percentage. He is also currently riding a four-game win streak in net.
Head coach of the Wings, Scott Langer, shares why Dybal was influential this past weekend for the team.
“Adam is an elite goaltender through all his preparation. He was completely on top of his game this weekend and a big reason for our success.”
2nd Star: Brody Dustin, F, Aberdeen Wings
3rd Star: Mason Gudridge, G, Watertown Shamrocks
East Star of the Week: Jason Cai - New Hampshire Mountain Kings
East Division Star of the Week: Jason Cai, Goaltender, New Hampshire Mountain Kings
Extending his winning ways in net, Jason Cai recorded his third and fourth consecutive victories against the Maine Nordiques over the weekend. The Garden State native started his weekend off on Friday night with a 17-save performance. The 6-foot-1 netminder lifted his team to a 5-3 victory. Moving into Saturday night, the ‘05 goaltender featured one of his best nights between the pipes with the New Hampshire Mountain Kings. In a tight battle between the two East Division teams, both teams found twine. New Hampshire struck first with a power-play tally in the second frame, with Maine scoring short-handed in the final minutes of regulation. As the contest was forced into overtime, both teams traded chances, and the game would then be pushed into an eventual shootout. Cai would turn away both shootout attempts, lifting his team to a 2-1 shootout victory. This contest marked the New Jersey native’s second-best performance in net. He stopped 32 out of 33 shots, spotlighting a .970 save performance.
For the weekend, Cai notched a .924 save percentage and a 1.92 goals-against average. His two wins extended his team’s winning ways to five-straight wins. The 6-foot-1 goaltender was acquired in the 2025 NAHL Entry Draft by the Mountain Kings in the fourth round, 126th overall.
Head coach of the Mountain Kings, Cam Robichaud, went into detail on Cai’s work ethic and determination this season.
"We're very proud of Jason and his accomplishments since joining the team for the second half of the season. It took a lot of determination and discipline on his end to work through a difficult injury this summer. Jason has been stellar the last couple of weekends with a 4-0 record in his last four appearances. He's been a leader between the pipes, making timely saves when the team needed a backbone to lean on. His ability to defend the crease is nothing but a product of his work ethic, attitude, and professionalism on and off the ice."
2nd Star: Brendan Giles, F, Rochester Jr. Americans
3rd Star: Adam Gionta, F, Rochester Jr. Americans
Midwest Star of the Week: Kai Weigel - Anchorage Wolverines
Midwest Division Star of the Week: Kai Weigel, Goaltender, Anchorage Wolverines
The 5-foot-11 netminder from North Dakota, Kai Weigel, showcased back-to-back key performances against the Janesville Jets over the weekend. Kicking things off on Friday night, Weigel turned aside 32 out of 33 shots on net, lifting his team to a 3-1 victory on home ice. Moving into Saturday night, the Bismarck, North Dakota, native allowed just one lone goal again, helping his team earn the 5-1 win at the Sullivan Arena. Both nights, Weigel’s lone goals allowed were scored on the man advantage by the Jets.
For the weekend, Weigel featured a .958 save percentage and a 1.00 goals-against average against the Janesville Jets. His defensive work between the pipes played a key role in helping the Wolverines sweep and their team’s push for the playoffs.
Head coach of the Wolverines, Mike Aikens, shares more on the impact Weigel has had this season.
“Kai has been great for us all season. It is great to see him recognized for his efforts. He is the best puck-handling goalie I have ever coached, and his preparation and attention to detail are like a pro. He gives us a chance to win every game, and he has been a huge part of our team’s success as we make the push for the playoffs.”
2nd Star: Luc Bydal, F, Anchorage Wolverines
3rd Star: Matthew Volkman, F, Fairbanks Ice Dogs
South Star of the Week: Jackson Silverberg - New Mexico Ice Wolves
South Division Star of the Week: Jackson Silverberg, Goaltender, New Mexico Ice Wolves
Earning his second South Division Star of the Week honors, Jackson Silverberg played a crucial role in net both nights for the Ice Wolves. Starting things off on Friday night, the 5-foot-9 netminder turned aside 32 shots on net, securing his team a 5-3 victory over the Shreveport Mudbugs. That Friday night contest was Silverberg’s fifth consecutive game making 30 or more saves for New Mexico. The ‘06 goaltender continued his defensive dominance in the blue paint on Saturday night, saving a season-high number of shots. The California native allowed one early goal by the Mudbugs, and then showcased a near-perfect performance between the pipes. He stopped 43 shots on net, securing a dominant .977 save percentage from that lone game. His work in the crease helped the Ice Wolves secure a weekend sweep against the Mudbugs.
For the weekend, Silverberg secured a .949 save percentage and a 2.00 goals-against average. This award marks his second time being recognized this season. For the year, the Los Angeles, California native spotlights a .918 save performance and 2.60 goals-against average from his 37 games played.
Head coach of the Ice Wolves, Kyle McKenzie, shares more on why Silverberg deserves the honor.
“Jackson has been lights out for us. His approach and work ethic day in and day out are impressive. He deserves all the credit.”
2nd Star: Trace Day, F, Oklahoma Warriors
3rd Star: Dylan McFadden, F, Lone Star Brahmas
Bauer's Stars of the Week Week of March 9, 2026
Central Star of the Week: Teddy Richardson - Bismarck Bobcats
Central Division Star of the Week: Teddy Richardson, Forward, Bismarck Bobcats
Earning his fourth weekly honor this season, Teddy Richardson has featured a dominant campaign in his third season in the League of Opportunity. The 6-foot-2 forward was influential in his team’s success over the weekend. Kicking things off on Friday night, the University of Alaska-Fairbanks commit produced three assists in the 6-3 win over the Watertown Shamrocks. Richardson notched two primary assists in the second, with both goals from Mark Evans. In the final frame, the St. Louis, Missouri native produced a setup on Alex Lunski’s tally. He ended the night with a three-point performance.
Moving into Saturday night, the Bobcats were scoreless throughout almost the whole contest. With a postseason berth on the line, the Show-Me State skate showcased his offensive skillset in a down-to-the-wire fashion. 19 seconds were left in regulation, and Richardson scored through the scramble to even the scoreboard 1-1. As the matchup was forced into overtime, Richardson had the puck on his stick. With 2:42 on the clock, the third-year NAHL veteran would light the lamp in game-winning fashion thanks to a top-shelf goal. The Bobcats skate away with a 2-1 come-from-behind overtime victory and a ticket punched to the postseason.
The 19-year-old has been on an offensive tear since joining the Bismarck Bobcats. In his 12 games with the team this season, he has shown up on the scoresheet in the last 10 contests. He features eight multi-point contests with Bismarck, and this past weekend was no different. The 6-foot-2 right-handed shot scored two goals, made three assists, and finished with five total points on the weekend. Earning weekly honors is something that Richardson knows very well. This marks the third Central Division weekly honor in his six weeks played with the team. Prior to joining the Bobcats, Richardson played with the Wisconsin Windigo, where he was named a Midwest Division Star of the Week on December 1, 2025.
The future Nanook is an alumnus of the T1ER, playing with the CarShield program for three seasons.
Head coach of the Bobcats, Garrett Roth, went into detail on Richardson’s qualities on and off the ice.
“Teddy helped lead the charge offensively for us this past weekend and came up huge for us late in Saturday's game. His ability to show up in critical moments of a game has been evident since his arrival. Teddy has continued to prove how committed he is to our group and has shown leadership qualities that have helped our group be more consistent in our approach.”
2nd Star: EJ Paddington, F, Austin Bruins
3rd Star: Matthew Martin, F, Aberdeen Wings
East Star of the Week: Nicolas Vrtiel - New Hampshire Mountain Kings
East Division Star of the Week: Nicolas Vrtiel, Forward, New Hampshire Mountain Kings
The 6-foot-1 forward from Bjonice, Slovakia, Nicolas Vrtiel, went on an offensive tear over the weekend for the Mountain Kings. Kicking things off on Friday night, Vritel showcased a season-high single-game performance. The matchup started with the Maine Nordiques striking first and taking the lead. However, a strong second-period push by Vrtiel helped the Mountain Kings to have the edge. The 20-year-old first provided the primary assist on Aidan Petroff’s one-timer. As the lead was cut in half, the first-year skater would tap in a power-play tally a little over a minute later. The Mountain Kings would take the lead heading into the final frame. The Nordiques would even the scoreboard in the final minutes of the game; however, Vrtiel had some more scoring to do. With 1:52 left in regulation, the Slovakia native scores off the face-off to give the Mountain Kings the lead and the eventual victory. His three-point performance marked a season-high night.
Heading into Saturday night, the Mountain Kings were looking for a weekend sweep on home ice, and they were able to get it done thanks to Vrtiel. The first-year skater opened the scoring in the first period with a power-play tally at the 6:19 minute mark. As the contest progressed, the Nordiques would score three goals between the first and second period, securing themselves the lead heading into the final frame. However, New Hampshire showcased a third-period push with a four-goal frame. Just like the night before, Vrtiel would score the game-winner in the same fashion. Midway through the period, the first-year forward would score off the face-off to give his team the lead in the third period. The Mountain Kings would end the night with a 5-3 win and a weekend sweep.
The ‘06 skater was drafted this year in the 2025 NAHL Entry Draft by the Mountain Kings in the first round, 13th overall. This weekend marked a dominant five-point weekend, featuring back-to-back two-goal nights. Vrtiel scored the game-winner in both games, lifting his team to an exciting sweep over the Nordiques. This past weekend marked his best weekend performance in the NAHL.
Head coach of the Mountain Kings, Cam Robichaud, explains what it means to see Vrtiel be named to the honor.
“Vrtiel had a huge weekend for us, and we are happy to see him get rewarded for his work! He has been a constant for us all year and is really growing and adapting to the North American style of play. Looking forward to seeing what he accomplishes the rest of the way.”
2nd Star: Zack Ferris, G, Johnstown Tomahawks
3rd Star: Joe Stauber, D, Philadelphia Rebels
Midwest Star of the Week: Dean Andrews - Fairbanks Ice Dogs
Midwest Division Star of the Week: Dean Andrews, Defenseman, Fairbanks Ice Dogs
In a battle for hockey supremacy in the 49th State, Dean Andrews played a big role in securing a Friday night victory for Fairbanks this past weekend. The 6-foot blueliner kicked off his weekend on Friday night at the Big Dipper Ice Arena. The second-year NAHL veteran opened the scoring for the Ice Dogs with a quick tally at the 18:46 minute mark. The contest would progress with a back-and-forth battle between the two Alaskan teams, and the matchup would eventually be moved into overtime. In that extra frame, Andrews would strike in the first 30 seconds, scoring the game-winner for the Ice Dogs. Fairbanks would skate away with a 4-3 overtime victory thanks to the NAHL veteran.
Moving into Saturday night, the contest would ultimately not go Fairbanks’ way; however, the defenseman played an offensive role from the blue line. Andrews notched two assists for the Ice Dogs in the second frame. He first provided an assist on Dub Eunice III’s tally, and then, a little over a minute later, the Illinois native produced the set-up for Gage Leonard’s power-play goal.
For the weekend, Andrews skates away with a four-point weekend, tallying two goals while making two assists. The ‘06 blueliner leads defensemen on his roster in goals (6), assists (20), and total points (26).
Head coach of the Ice Dogs, Dakota Bell, shares how Andrew’s dedication to development is getting rewarded with this honor.
“Dean being named Star of the Week is a testament to his work ethic and development over the past year. Dean has worked relentlessly on his craft day in and day out, and now he’s reaping those rewards.”
Bell went on to explain what it means to see Andrews deliver the victory on Friday night.
“Being able to see the fans at the Big Dipper happy on Friday night with an overtime winner was a special moment for him and important for our team. Dean has stepped up in clutch situations multiple times this year by using his skating and vision. We are excited to see what else he can help us accomplish in the final few months of the season.”
2nd Star: Luc Bydal, F, Anchorage Wolverines
3rd Star: Alex Ballard, D, Kenai River Brown Bears
South Star of the Week: Duke Ehrhard - Shreveport Mudbugs
South Division Star of the Week: Duke Ehrhard, Forward, Shreveport Mudbugs
Spotlighting a dominating performance on home ice, Duke Ehrhard produced a career-first on Friday night. The 6-foot-2 lefty from California played a critical role in securing a big win against the Jackalopes in game one of the series. Ehrhard first showed up on the scoresheet with an assist on Grayson Gerhard’s tally in the opening frame. The second-year veteran was on the blue line and kept the puck in the offensive zone for the Mudbugs, providing the secondary assist for the goal. In the second frame, both teams lit the lamp and Odessa had the one-goal advantage heading into the final period. The final 20 minutes of the contest were where the Manhattan Beach, California native produced a career-first, a hat trick. The 6-foot-2 skater first goes top-shelf to even the scoreboard at the 18:09 minute mark of the frame. The period would be silent until Ehrhard scored his second of the night, this time on the power play at the 5:45 minute mark, to give Shreveport their first lead of the game. The ‘06 skater would tack on one more in the final moments of the contest as the Jackalopes pulled their goaltender. From the defensive blue line, Ehrhard finds the back of the net, sealing his team's 6-3 come-from-behind victory.
Moving into Saturday night, the second-year skater would contribute to half of the offensive production for the team. He first provided an assist on William-Alexis Tremblay’s goal in the second frame to give the Mudbugs the 2-1 advantage. The 6-foot-2 lefty would tally a power-play goal off a rebound at the 12:31 minute mark of the final period. The Mudbugs would secure a series sweep thanks to his offensive prowess.
For the weekend, he tallied four goals while making two assists. His four-point game on Friday night was a season-high performance for a single game. On his roster, Ehrhard is the leading goal-scorer. He has tallied 18 goals on the year.
Head coach of the Mudbugs, Jason Campbell, went into detail on why Ehrhard is an all-around player for the Mudbugs.
“Duke has been strong all season for us. His best asset is how consistent he is. We can play him on any line, in any situation, and he will be impactful. This weekend, he was great offensively but also played a major role on our penalty kill.”
2nd Star: Jackson Silverberg, G, New Mexico Ice Wolves
3rd Star: Christian Venticinque, F, Lone Star Brahmas
Bauer's Stars of the Week Week of March 2, 2026
Central Star of the Week: Teddy Richardson - Bismarck Bobcats
Central Division Star of the Week: Teddy Richardson, Forward, Bismarck Bobcats
Hailing from the Show-Me State and showing off his offensive dominance on the ice over the weekend, Teddy Richardson notches his third Star of the Week honors. The 6-foot-2 righty featured a six-point weekend. His offensive production kicked off on Friday night, registering three back-to-back assists. Richardson first helped to take the puck across the blue line, providing the set-up for Nick Snyder’s tally at the 15:36 minute mark. Following that, 30 seconds later, the ‘06 skater produced the primary assist on Snyder’s goal. Richardson’s play-making ability continued in the opening frame, producing the set-up for Noah Ziskie’s goal at the 10:17 minute mark.
The St. Louis, Missouri native continued to show up on the scoresheet into Saturday night. His first occurrence would be five minutes into the contest on Noah Ziskie’s one-timer tally. The University of Alaska-Fairbanks commit later into the frame would carry the puck across the neutral zone to provide the primary assist on Mark Evans’ goal at the 10:59 minute mark. Richardson rounded out his weekend with one final assist, this time on Alex Lunski’s power-play goal in the third period.
The third-year NAHL veteran ended his weekend with six assists, extending his ability to show up on the scoresheet to eight straight games. This past weekend’s set marked his third and fourth three-assist games of the year. Richardson is an alumnus of the T1ER, having played with the CarShield program. This award marks the third time that the ‘06 forward has earned Star of the Week honors this season.
Head coach of the Bobcats, Garrett Roth, shares how Richardson has made an immediate impact on the roster.
“Teddy has done a great job fitting in with our group and has been dynamic for our group offensively. The chemistry he has with his linemates, Mark Evans and Nick Snyder, has made them a tough match-up for opponents. Teddy has helped make an impact not only offensively, but also working back to the defensive zone with his effort and accountability. This past weekend, that line was instrumental in our success, and I look forward to seeing Teddy's game continue to develop into being a big-time Division I hockey player.”
2nd Star: Cooper Anderson, F, Aberdeen Wings
3rd Star: Zach Boren, F, Watertown Shamrocks
East Star of the Week: Nick Jarmain - Johnstown Tomahawks
East Division Star of the Week: Nick Jarmain, Forward, Johnstown Tomahawks
There is a reason why he is called “Captain Clutch” on his team. Nick Jarmain spotlights his second Star of the Week honors this season thanks to his performance over the weekend. Kicking things off on Friday night, the 5-foot-11 righty first showed up on the scoresheet with a game-tying goal midway through the second frame. His offensive production continued in the contest, this time at a critical moment. With 36 seconds left in the third frame, Jarmain found twine once again to even up the scoreboard 3-3. The Tomahawks would eventually fall in overtime; however, his critical play-making allowed his team to skate away with a point from the night.
Moving into Saturday night, the Moorestown, New Jersey native registered a career-high game with the Tomahawks. His night started in the opening frame, where he scored in one-timer fashion on the man advantage. His ability to score on the power play continued into the second frame, where he found twine off a rebound. Both goals scored were to even the scoreboard against the Rochester Jr. Americans. The second-year veteran would then provide the set-up for Sean Leetch’s tally a few minutes later, to give the Tomahawks their first lead of the night. As the contest moved into the third period, the Jr. Americans were able to even the score at 4-4, forcing the game into overtime. In overtime, Jarmain would provide the set-up to Charlie Zetterkvist’s goal at the 1:16 minute mark, helping his team skate away with the victory.
Jarmain registered six points for the weekend, tallying four goals and two assists. The captain was also selected as a Top Prospect for the East Division team this season. The New Jersey native leads his team with 32 goals and 57 points on the season. Jarmain is one of the top scorers in the NAHL, currently tied third overall with his 32 tallies. The last time he earned a weekly distinction was on September 22, 2025.
Geoffrey Beauparlant from the Tomahawks explains why Jarmain has been a key player for Johnstown.
“Nick is the heart and soul of our club. The guys call him ‘Captain Clutch’ for a reason. He shows up in big moments, and that was evident this weekend against Rochester. His preparation, attention to detail, and leadership qualities endear him to his teammates and the staff.”
2nd Star: Cole Peters, D, Maryland Black Bears
3rd Star: Brendan Boring, F, Danbury Hat Tricks
Midwest Star of the Week: Miles Roberts - Fairbanks Ice Dogs
Midwest Division Star of the Week: Miles Roberts, Goaltender, Fairbanks Ice Dogs
Hailing from the Golden State, while showcasing a golden performance between the pipes, Miles Roberts notched two dominant wins over the weekend. The 6-foot-2 netminder kicked off his weekend in a big way on Friday night. Roberts secured his second shutout in his NAHL career with a 29-save performance. His ability in the crease carried into Saturday night. Roberts allowed an early first-period goal. Following that, he was lights out. The Costa Mesa, California native turned away 17 out of 18 shots on net, earning his second win of the weekend.
This weekend marked Roberts’ first time in his NAHL career to secure a series sweep with only himself in net for both games. He featured a 0.50 goals-against average and a .979 save percentage from the weekend set. Roberts stopped a total of 46 out of 47 in net.
Head coach of the Ice Dogs, Dakota Bell, explains what it means to see Roberts named to the honor.
“We’re thrilled to see Miles earn this recognition as Midwest Star of the Week. Miles shows up to the rink every day with a pro mentality, ready to work on his craft. This has led to him being our most consistent player since the start of the second half of the season. As an age-out, Miles brings valuable experience and a calming presence to our locker room. We’re lucky to have him on our side as we head down the final stretch of the season.”
2nd Star: Zach Homer, F, Minnesota Wilderness
3rd Star: Hans Hedlund, F, Janesville Jets
South Star of the Week: Andy Earl - New Mexico Ice Wolves
South Division Star of the Week: Andy Earl, Forward, New Mexico Ice Wolves
Playing four games in a span of six days, Andy Earl was crucial in New Mexico’s road trip in Oklahoma and Texas. The ‘05 second-year veteran got his week started in Oklahoma last Monday night. Earl provided the primary assist on Sean Gibbons’ tally seven seconds into the contest. Moving into Tuesday night, the Minnesota native would secure two primary assists on Gibbons’ goals. The first one would be a little over a minute into the contest, and the second assist would be produced with 1:31 left in the opening frame. Earl would continue his streak of showing up on the scoresheet on Friday night against the Amarillo Wranglers. The 6-foot righty would kick off his night with a primary assist on Brock Fairbanks’ tally in the opening frame. Earl would get to work in the second period, scoring two consecutive power-play goals four minutes apart from each other. His second tally would eventually be named the game-winner of the contest, lifting his team to a 5-3 victory. Moving into Saturday night, the second-year veteran found twine with 13:08 to spare in the middle frame. Earl would continue to show up on the scoresheet a few minutes later, providing the primary assist on Oskar Edberg’s goal. Thanks to his help, Earl and the Ice Wolves skate away with a weekend sweep over the Wranglers.
For the week, Earl tallied three goals while making five assists. This season, the Minnesota native leads the Ice Wolves in every scoring category. He features a team-leading 28 goals, 31 assists, and 59 total points. Just a few weeks ago, Earl was named as a Top Prospect for the 2026 Top Prospects Tournament. The forward skated with the South Division team. In addition, this honor marks the second time that Earl has been recognized this season.
Head coach of the Ice Wolves, Kyle McKenzie, dives into detail on what he has seen from Earl.
“Andy has put in so much work to elevate his game and deserves all the credit. We are very proud of Andy and how he represents the Ice Wolves organization on and off the ice.”
2nd Star: Dylan McFadden, F, Lone Star Brahmas
3rd Star: Troy Hunka, F, El Paso Rhinos
Bauer's Stars of the Week Week of February 23, 2026
Central Star of the Week: Fuji Suzuki - North Iowa Bulls
Central Division Star of the Week: Fuji Suzuki, Forward, North Iowa Bulls
Earning his second Central Star of the Week honors, Fuji Suzuki showcased his offensive prowess on Saturday night for the North Iowa Bulls. The alternate captain is coming off playing at the Top Prospect Tournament for the Central Division team last week. In his first game back with his NAHL team, Suzuki would light the lamp for the lone goal for the Bulls on Friday night. With a fire to turn the tides on Saturday night, the second-year veteran got to work and recorded a career-high night with North Iowa. Suzuki played a critical role in the Bulls’ 6-4 win over the Bismarck Bobcats. He secured his first hat trick while spotlighting a career-high four-point night. He found the back of the net twice in the opening frame and then completed his hat trick in the second period with a power-play tally. Six minutes following that third goal, Suzuki would provide the set-up to Denis Kuzmenkov’s game-winning goal.
For the weekend, the second-year veteran featured a five-point weekend, scoring four goals while making an assist. Suzuki is a native of Tokyo, Japan, and he has played a crucial offensive role for North Iowa this season. He leads his team with 29 goals and 52 points on the season. This award marks the second time this season to be recognized as the Central Division Star of the Week.
Head coach of the Bulls, Nick Bruneteau, explains why Suzuki continues to be a top skater not only for the Bulls, but for the league as well.
“Fuji had a great weekend, and continues to produce in critical moments. He has been a game-changer for us all season. His ability to change speeds and accelerate, along with his understanding of the game, has separated him from others. We believe he is one of the best players in the league, and he showcased that this weekend.”
2nd Star: Gavin Hruza, F, Austin Bruins
3rd Star: Mason Gudridge, G, Watertown Shamrocks
East Star of the Week: Keagin Wilson - Northeast Generals
East Division Star of the Week: Keagin Wilson, Goaltender, Northeast Generals
Hailing from Hingham, Massachusetts, Keagin Wilson dominated between the pipes in his first back-to-back starts in a weekend series. The 6-foot-1 goaltender is in his first season playing for the Generals. His weekend’s performance kicked off on Friday night against the Johnstown Tomahawks. Wilson allowed one early second-period goal, but after that, he was perfect in the crease. He stopped 26 out of 27 shots, allowing his team to skate away with a 4-1 victory on home ice. Moving into Saturday night, the ‘06 netminder earned his second consecutive win on the blue paint with a 24-save performance against the Tomahawks.
For the weekend, Wilson featured a 1.50 goals-against average and a .943 save percentage between the two games. Friday night spotlighted his second-best single-game save percentage this season. He featured a .963 save percentage from that contest. His two wins between the pipes helped the Generals tighten up the East Division standings, putting Northeast tied in fourth with 52 points on the season.
Head coach of the Generals, Bryan Erikson, went into detail on Wilson’s performance over the weekend and shares more on the type of person Wilson is off the ice.
“So proud of Keagin. He works so hard with our goalie coach, Ian Milosz, and really has become a calming presence in net. He makes huge saves and pushes his goalie partner, Will Mizenko. The two of them make up an amazing tandem. We are playing a stretch of games that are incredibly important. Keagin this past weekend, played lights out on Friday in a 4-1 win and got the start on Saturday. He was outstanding again. We won 4-2 with both goals being power-play goals, and nothing he could really do. Keagin just keeps getting better. Every day, he shows up ready to go and compete. His teammates love him, and the staff trusts him. He is a great kid playing great hockey!”
2nd Star: Keanan Dewberry, F, Rochester Jr. Americans
3rd Star: Rich Rucireto, F, Northeast Generals
Midwest Star of the Week: Devin Rustlie - Kenai River Brown Bears
Midwest Division Star of the Week: Devin Rustlie, Goaltender, Kenai River Brown Bears
Picking up a big win against a top team on Friday night, Devin Rustlie showcased defensive dominance in the crease for the Brown Bears. The ‘06 goaltender is a second-year veteran of the NAHL, and this past weekend was his best between the pipes with Kenai River. Kicking things off on Friday night, Rustlie secured a 28-save performance against the top team in the Midwest Division, the Minnesota Wilderness. He was perfect between the pipes until a late third-period goal by Minnesota’s Talan Blanck. That late goal would not be enough, with the Brown Bears earning a 5-1 victory over the Wilderness. Moving into Saturday, the scoreboard would not be in favor of Kenai River; however, Rustlie’s work in the crease would not go unnoticed. The Wisconsin native would turn aside 32 out of 34 shots, with both goals scored by the Wilderness coming in the third frame, just a few minutes apart. His valiant effort in net kept the game extremely tight against one of the top teams in the NAHL.
For the weekend, Rustlie featured a 1.50 goals-against average and a .953 save percentage. For the Brown Bears, their two victories against the Wilderness this season have come with the help of Rustlie between the pipes.
Head coach of the Brown Bears, Darren Banks, dives into detail on what he has seen from Rustlie this past weekend.
“Rustlie played well this weekend and has had a high-compete level in practice. We are excited to see him get rewarded for it. He has been here for a little over a month and continues to get better week after week. He was a calming presence in the net and made some timely saves as well. It was exciting for our group.”
2nd Star: Joshua Sardo, F, Wisconsin Windigo
3rd Star: Ryan Gerlich, G, Minnesota Wilderness
South Star of the Week: Michael Modelski - El Paso Rhinos
South Division Star of the Week: Michael Modelski, Goaltender, El Paso Rhinos
Serving as a key piece in the Rhinos’ success this weekend, Michael Modelski showcased a dominant performance between the pipes, picking up a huge win on Friday night against the South Division leader. After coming off competing at the 2026 Top Prospects Tournament, Modelski got to work in his first game back with El Paso. Kicking things off on Friday night, the 6-foot-1 netminder produced a NAHL career-first. Modelski was perfect in the crease, notching a 36-save shutout against the Lone Star Brahmas. His work in net helped his team earn a 4-0 victory on home ice. Moving into Saturday night, the contest would be extremely tight and in a deadlock until the final frame, where Lone Star would find twine. Despite falling in a 1-0 fashion, Modelski’s timely saves helped to keep his team tight in the contest. He turned aside 30 shots from that lone contest.
The New Boston, Michigan native secured a 0.50 goals-against average and a .984 save performance from the weekend. He saved a total of 66 shots. For the season, Modelski leads the league with his .935 save percentage. His work in the blue paint has played a critical role in helping the Rhinos secure big wins against top teams.
Head coach of the Rhinos, Mike Rivera, went into detail on how Modelski has served as a keystone piece for El Paso this season.
“This is a well-deserved and long-time coming honor for Mo. He has been lights out for us all season, and his ability was on full display this past weekend in some big games. Our group hasn’t always helped Mo defensively to keep his goals-against average down, but the fact that he has the best save percentage in the league speaks for itself. He’s an absolute competitor, and we are happy to see him get the recognition he deserves.
2nd Star: Xander Miceli, G, Corpus Christi IceRays
3rd Star: Sean Gibbons, F, New Mexico Ice Wolves
Bauer's Stars of the Week Week of February 15, 2026
Central Star of the Week: Eddie Revenig - Bismarck Bobcats
Central Division Star of the Week: Eddie Revenig, Defenseman, Bismarck Bobcats
The 20-year-old from the State of Hockey, Eddie Revenig, led defensemen in the league with five points on the weekend. Starting on Friday night, the 5-foot-11 blueliner produced a season-high four-point performance for the Bobcats. He first provided the primary power-play assist on Nick Snyder’s tally in the opening frame. He would show up on the scoresheet again with a goal midway through the second period. Revenig would then notch an assist on Mark Evans’ goal at the 17-second mark of the second period. The Minnesota native would finish out his night with an assist on Gianni DiVita’s shorthanded tally in the final 20 seconds of the game. Moving into Saturday night, Revenig's offensive skill from the blue line would be spotlighted once more for the weekend. The first-year Bobcat would provide the assist on Frantisek Broz’s goal in the second frame. Bismarck would skate away with a weekend sweep thanks to Revenig’s defensive and offensive skillset.
Head coach of Bobcats, Garrett Roth, went into detail on what he has seen from Revenig this past weekend.
“Eddie had a great weekend and has really focused on his consistency on the defensive side of the puck. He plays in every situation for us and has a great ability to break pressure and create offense on the rush and in the zone. His offensive ability was on full display this weekend with the impact he made on the scoresheet. Eddie has been a huge part of our success this year, and he is really developing into a premier defenseman in this league.”
2nd Star: Mason Gudridge, G, Watertown Shamrocks
3rd Star: Lucca Ori, F, Minot Minotauros
East Star of the Week: Jon Dukaric - Danbury Hat Tricks
East Division Star of the Week: Jon Dukaric, Goaltender, Danbury Hat Tricks
The 6-foot-3 netminder from Slovenia, Jon Dukaric, earns his second East Division Star of the Week honors with his performance between the pipes this past weekend. Starting things off on Friday afternoon, the 20-year-old earned his first shootout victory of the season with a 31-save performance against the New Hampshire Mountain Kings. Dukaric saved post shootout goals to give his team the 3-2 win on home ice. Moving into Saturday afternoon, the Slovenian netminder notched his fourth shutout in his NAHL career. He stopped all 32 shots by the Mountain Kings, securing the Hat Tricks a weekend sweep.
For the weekend, he notched two wins, a .969 save percentage, and .960 goals-against average. He stopped a total of 63 out of 66 shots on net. Dukaric was a 2025 NAHL Entry Draft pick by the Hat Tricks. He was selected in the 8th round, 245th overall. For the season, the ‘05 goaltender has earned 17 wins in 31 games played, spotlighting a .921 save percentage and 2.59 goals-against average.
Head coach of the Hat Tricks, Lenny Caglianone, explains what he has seen from Dukaric this past weekend.
“Jon has been incredible as of late. His consistency and hard work have allowed us to find a flow state in games and build collectively as a group. As Jon leads, we will continue to follow.”
2nd Star: Trey Hinton, F, Maryland Black Bears
3rd Star: Ryan Shaw, F, Rochester Jr. Americans
Midwest Star of the Week: Thomas Gunderson - Fairbanks Ice Dogs
Midwest Division Star of the Week: Thomas Gunderson, Forward, Fairbanks Ice Dogs
Securing a career-high night in his sixth game as an Ice Dog, Thomas Gunderson shined on Saturday night for his team. Gunderson is a third-year veteran of the NAHL. He was recently acquired by the Ice Dogs from their in-state rival, the Kenai River Brown Bears. Gunderson and his team are on their Lower 48 road trip and faced the Springfield Jr. Blues this past weekend. Friday night featured Fairbanks falling to the Jr Blues, and they were looking to respond in a big way on Saturday night. The Duluth, Minnesota native lit the lamp five times in the contest, with four of his goals in the second frame. His offensive production was not only a season-high, but a NAHL career high. The 5-foot-10 lefty helped to lift his team to a 9-2 victory.
For the season, Gunderson has tallied 18 goals while producing 20 assists. Gunderson has recently hit a milestone, playing over 100 NAHL career games. The Minnesota native has logged 70 career points in his three-year junior career.
Head coach of the Ice Dogs, Dakota Bell, shares more on Gunderson's offensive dominance on Saturday night.
“To see Thomas score five goals in one game was truly amazing! He and his linemates, Luca Ricciardi and Matthew Volkman, were clicking all night and made some beautiful plays. When Gundy is able to use his terrific speed and then find space to shoot, that’s when he’s at his best. Seemingly every shift, he was getting scoring chances, and he was able to finish them.”
Bell shared more about how Gunderson fits in with the Ice Dogs organization.
“Thomas has brought great energy to our club since his arrival a few weeks ago. He’s found a way to fit into the locker room really well, and his teammates already trust him. We’re glad to have him on our side and looking forward to watching him have more success as we push towards the final stretch of the regular season.”
2nd Star: Zachary Homer, F, Minnesota WIlderness
3rd Star: Anthony McIntosh, D, Kenai River Brown Bears
South Star of the Week: Tyler Hodges - Shreveport Mudbugs
South Division Star of the Week: Tyler Hodges, Goaltender, Shreveport Mudbugs
The 6-foot-2 netminder from Gormley, Ontario, Tyler Hodges, helped the Mudbugs pick up three crucial points over the weekend against the Amarillo Wranglers. The 6-foot-2 goaltender kicked off his weekend with his fourth shutout of the season on Friday night. Hodges stopped all 26 shots on net to lift his team to a 3-0 victory on their road trip. Moving into Saturday night, the Mudbugs battled with the Wranglers in a back-and-forth at the Budweiser Bull Pen. The contest would be forced into overtime and an eventual shootout. The Mudbugs would fall in 4-3 shootout fashion; however, the 6-foot-2 netminder spotlighted a 31-save performance while helping his team secure three out of four points for the weekend.
For the weekend, Hodges notched a .950 save percentage and 1.44 goals-against average. His dominance in the blue paint on Friday night marked his fourth shutout of the year.
Head coach of the Mudbugs, Jason Campbell, went into detail on Hodges’ performance from the weekend.
“Hodgey had another great weekend doing his thing. Made several point-blank saves on Friday to preserve the shutout and win. Saturday night was a lot of the same, with him leading the way to our team gaining another much-needed point.”
2nd Star: Nikita Konevych, D, Corpus Christi IceRays
3rd Star: Jackson Potulny, F, El Paso Rhinos
Bauer's Stars of the Week Week of February 9, 2026
Central Star of the Week: Teddy Richardson - Bismarck Bobcats
Central Division Star of the Week: Teddy Richardson, Forward, Bismarck Bobcats
The Show-Me State skater, Teddy Richardson, put on a show this past weekend for the Bobcats. In a battle for the Dakota Buffalo Cup, the Bobcats hosted the Watertown Shamrocks for a weekend series. Starting on Friday night, Richardson produced his first two points playing for the Central Division team. He notched two primary assists on Nick Snyder’s tallies in the contest, helping to lift the Bobcats to a 3-2 victory. Moving into Saturday night, the University of Alaska-Fairbanks commit showed off his offensive capabilities in a big way. Richardson would find twine for his first goal as a Bobcat with under a minute on the clock in the opening frame. 50 seconds later, the ‘06 forward would show off his speed by taking the puck across the neutral zone and scoring an unassisted goal to give Bismarck their first lead of the night. The contest would feature a battle for the next 40 minutes of regulation, forcing the game into overtime. With a turnover forced by Bismarck’s Charlie Kresl, a 2-on-1 broke out, and Richardson would light the lamp in overtime game-winning fashion. The third-year NAHL veteran notched his fourth career hat trick, helping to secure his team a 5-4 overtime win.
For the weekend, the 6-foot-2 skater spotlighted a five-point performance, tallying three goals and two assists. Richardson is a T1ER alumnus, skating with the CarShield program. This honor marks the second time this season the 19-year-old has been recognized with a weekly award. The last time he was named was on December 1, 2025, following a four-goal night with the Wisconsin Windigo. Richardson has played over 100 games in the NAHL, securing 85 career points.
Head coach of the Bobcats, Garrett Roth, explains what he has seen from Richardson during his short time with the Bismarck organization.
“Teddy has been a big addition to our group and has the ability to make an immediate impact in our lineup. Offensively, he made a huge imprint on our success, but his work ethic and commitment to how we want to play stood out this past weekend. We've had a lot of changes within our group lately, and he has done a great job understanding what the focus is for his development and our team's success.”
2nd Star: Denis Hodas, F, North Iowa Bulls
3rd Star: Siamion Marshchanok, F, Austin Bruins
East Star of the Week: Matt Maglio - Elmira Aviators
East Division Star of the Week: Matthew Maglio, Forward, Elmira Aviators
The alternate captain, Matt Maglio, took flight this past weekend and produced a NAHL career first in back-to-back nights for the Aviators. The 6-foot-3 righty started his weekend with a critical-time goal on Friday night. With the game tied 2-2, the contest was forced into overtime and eventually went into a shootout. With a back-and-forth battle brewing, Maglio would find twine and be the hero in the sixth round of the shootout. This shootout goal marked his first in his NAHL career. Moving into Saturday night, the matchup featured an offensive frenzy between both teams. The Ringwood, New Jersey native would get his night started with a one-timer in the final minutes of the opening period. Maglio would then show up on the scoresheet again early in the second period in the same one-timer fashion. His offensive production does not end there; the 19-year-old would notch a career-first, a hat trick. With 14:44 on the clock, Maglio lights the lamp on the power play in, of course, one-timer fashion. The Aviators would fall; however, the alternate captain’s offensive dominance kept his team in the contest.
For the weekend, Maglio tallied three goals and a shootout goal. The ‘06 skater was one of the few selected for the 2026 Top Prospects Tournament and will be skating for the Selects Red roster at the USA Hockey Arena. On his roster, the New Jersey native ranks first on his roster in goals (16) and total points (37). He features a team-leading nine power-play goals on the year.
Head coach of the Aviators, Leeor Shtrohm, shares why Maglio is deserving of the recognition.
“A well-deserved honor for Mags. He’s been a key player for us every night. He puts in the work all week in practice and continues to develop into a 200-foot player that can put the puck in the net.”
2nd Star: Jon Dukaric, G, Danbury Hat Tricks
3rd Star: Keanan Dewberry, F, Rochester Jr. Americans
Midwest Star of the Week: Kyle Rohrer - Fairbanks Ice Dogs
Midwest Division Star of the Week: Kyle Rohrer, Forward, Fairbanks Ice Dogs
Roaring into a big offensive weekend was third-year veteran Kyle Rohrer. The ‘05 skater played a key offensive piece in the Ice Dogs’ sweep against their in-state rivals, the Anchorage Wolverines. The 6-foot forward got his weekend started with a three-point performance on Friday night. The Lindenwood commit found twine quickly into the opening frame with a power-play goal at the 14:15 minute mark. Rohrer would continue his offensive production in the first period with assists on Dean Andrews' goal midway through the frame and then Oliver Barna’s power-play tally with 3:20 to spare on the clock. Rohrer ended his night with a three-point game, helping his team secure a 7-1 victory. Heading into Saturday night, Fairbanks was looking to continue their winning ways against the Anchorage Wolverines at the Big Dipper Ice Arena. Just like the night before, the Wisconsin native would light the lamp in the opening period on the man advantage. The third-year veteran would round out his night with an assist on Oliver Barna’s power-play goal in the final minute of the second period. The Ice Dogs secured the sweep thanks to Rohrer’s work.
For the weekend, the Lindenwood commit featured a five-point performance, tallying two goals and three assists. Rohrer has been a key offensive piece for the Ice Dogs this season, leading the team with 1.37 points per game in his age-out year. He leads the Ice Dogs with 33 assists, while sitting in second with 48 total points on the season. The Oregon, Wisconsin native has played a total of 132 career games for the Ice Dogs, picking up 139 career points in the span.
Head coach of the Ice Dogs, Dakota Bell, explains why Rohrer’s work in practice is paying dividends in his success in games.
“Kyle is fully deserving of the recognition as NAHL Midwest Division Star of the Week. For us, everything starts in practice with a strong work ethic & attention to detail, and Kyle demonstrated that throughout the week. This helped lead into our two wins, where both Kyle and our team had success.”
Bell went into more detail on what is making Rohrer successful on the ice.
“When Kyle is playing as he did away from the puck, it helps him get the puck on his stick more, and that’s always a good thing for us. What great timing for his performance, with him being named an assistant captain for us this past week! In addition, Kyle moved into the top five all-time for points as an Ice Dog. In his three seasons with us in Fairbanks, Kyle has taken tremendous strides both on and off the ice, and we are so proud of him. We are excited to see how he finishes the year with us and look forward to watching him next year at Lindenwood.”
2nd Star: Dean Andrews, D, Fairbanks Ice Dogs
3rd Star: Niko Laus, F, Springfield Jr. Blues
South Star of the Week: Jackson Silverberg - New Mexico Ice Wolves
South Division Star of the Week: Jackson Silverberg, Goaltender, New Mexico Ice Wolves
Hailing from the City of Angels, Jackson Silverberg stood tall in the blue paint over the weekend for the Ice Wolves. The 5-foot-9 netminder picked up crucial points for New Mexico’s hunt for the postseason. Starting things off on Friday night, the 5-foot-9 netminder was lights out after allowing an early first-period goal by the IceRays. He stopped 28 out of 29 shots, picking up a win in the blue paint. Moving into Saturday night, the ‘06 first-year goaltender picked up a shootout victory in the crease. The contest featured a back-and-forth battle between the teams, forcing the game into overtime and an eventual shootout. Silverberg saved both shootout attempts, lifting his team to a 3-2 victory on the road. Between the pipes, Silverberg made a 40-save performance, ranking as his second highest performance of the season.
For the weekend, the first-year netminder stopped 68 out of 71 shots on net, spotlighting a 1.50 goals-against average and .971 save percentage between both games. For the season, the California native has picked up 18 wins in his 28 games played, securing a .911 save percentage in his rookie season.
Head coach of the Ice Wolves, Kyle McKenzie, went into detail on how Silverberg has served a key role on the team.
“Jackson has been solid for us all season long. He had a great opportunity last weekend and ran with it. He has a tremendous work ethic and it is no surprise Jackson is having success.”
2nd Star: Michael Modelski, G, El Paso Rhinos
3rd Star: Andy Earl, F, New Mexico Ice Wolves
Bauer's Stars of the Week Week of February 2, 2026
Central Star of the Week: Cooper Anderson - Aberdeen Wings
Central Division Star of the Week: Cooper Anderson, Defenseman, Aberdeen Wings
The 6-foot-4 lefty, Cooper Anderson, could not be outdone this weekend for the Wings. The Quinnipiac commit played a huge role in Aberdeen’s sweep over the Bismarck Bobcats. He got his weekend started on Friday night at the Odde Ice Center. Anderson was crucial in the Wings’ battle-from-behind victory. He first showed up on the scoresheet when he provided an assist on Owen Pitter’s tally two minutes into the second period. The second-year veteran would notch another assist, this time on Matthew Martin’s goal at the 15:41 minute mark. As the contest was tied 3-3 heading into the final period, the Elk River, Minnesota, native would find twine in game-winning fashion for his team. With 15:47 on the clock, Anderson would score through traffic to give his team their first lead of the night. The Wings would skate away with a 5-3 victory thanks to his three-point performance.
Moving into Saturday night, Aberdeen was in the hunt to produce their first sweep over the Bobcats this season. The contest would be a low-scoring affair, with both teams tallying a goal each in the second frame. With the matchup being forced into overtime, the ‘06 blueliner would be the hero in extra minutes. With a power play getting ready to expire, Anderson got the work and scored on the man advantage with 1:15 left on the clock. The Wings would skate away with a big 2-1 overtime victory.
For the weekend, Anderson spotlighted a four-point performance, tallying two goals and two assists. Both goals marked his first and second game-winning goals in his NAHL career. Additionally, his three-point night on Friday marked the third three-point night of his NAHL career. On his roster, the 19-year-old is the leading defenseman in goals (7), assists (29), and total points (36). In addition, Anderson leads the Wings with 14 power-play assists.
Head coach of the Wings, Scott Langer, shares what he has seen from Anderson this season.
“Coop has been a big-time leader on our backend. He is a worker who makes a difference every night.”
2nd Star: Joe Rice, F, Watertown Shamrocks
3rd Star: EJ Paddington, F, Austin Bruins
East Star of the Week: Aidan Petroff - New Hampshire Mountain Kings
East Division Star of the Week: Aidan Petroff, Forward, New Hampshire Mountain Kings
Hailing from the Keystone State and serving as a keystone piece for New Hampshire’s sweep this past weekend, Aidan Petroff was critical in the Mountain Kings’ success. The 6-foot forward was key in keeping New Hampshire still in the fight on Friday night. With 45 seconds on the clock in the third period, the Mountain Kings were down 3-2. Amidst chaos in the final minute of the game, Petroff delivered the game-tying goal, allowing his team to force the contest into extra minutes. The Mountain Kings would skate away with a 4-3 overtime victory thanks to his offensive work in the final moments of the game.
Moving into Saturday night, the 19-year-old was a key piece of New Hampshire’s overtime win once again. Petroff first showed up on the scoresheet with a primary assist on Rogerio Cacciarelli’s power-play tally at the 14:50 minute mark of the second period. The 6’0 forward would continue with his clutch skating when he would keep the puck from crossing the blue line and then provide the primary assist to Ben Dias’ tally at the 3:28 minute mark of the second frame. As the contest moved into the third period, the Northeast Generals were able to battle back from a deficit and even the scoreboard at 3-3. As the game is forced into overtime, Petroff would be the hero in extra minutes for his team. The Pennsylvania native would come onto the ice during a line change, and six seconds later, Petroff would take the puck and find twine. His overtime goal marks his first game-winning goal in his NAHL career.
For the weekend, the ‘06 skater spotlighted a four-point performance, tallying two goals and two assists. Petroff is one of the top skaters on the New Hampshire roster, sitting tied in second with 17 total points on the season. The 19-year-old is an alumnus of the T1ER, playing two seasons with the Pittsburgh Stars organization.
Head coach of the Mountain Kings, Cam Robichaud, describes what he has seen from Petroff this season.
"We're proud of Aidan as he continues to elevate his game this season. He's not only provided consistent scoring for the team, but also important goals as well, to help the team secure points since returning from Christmas break. We know this is only the beginning for him and look forward to continuing to watch him develop and grow in his rookie campaign."
2nd Star: Jaden Johnson, F, New Hampshire Mountain Kings
3rd Star: Owen King, F, Rochester Jr. Americans
Midwest Star of the Week: Kaenan Smith - Janesville Jets
Midwest Division Star of the Week: Kaenan Smith, Goaltender, Janesville Jets
Standing tall in the blue paint this past weekend, Kaenan Smith showcased a season-best in both nights against the Springfield Jr. Blues. The young 6-foot-2 netminder got his weekend started on Friday night. After coming off a loss to the Springfield Jr. Blues the weekend prior, the Jets were hungry to respond with a victory on Springfield’s home ice for the first time this season. Friday night featured the UMD commit tying a season-high of 35 saves in one game. Smith is one of the youngest netminders in the league, and he would continue his big performance between the pipes into the next night against one of the oldest rosters in the NAHL. On Saturday night, the Minnesota native would notch a NAHL career first, a shutout. Smith turned away all 31 shots on net, notching a perfect performance between the pipes.
For the weekend, he recorded a 2-0 performance, securing a 1.00 goals-against average and a .964 save percentage. Smith’s work in the crease has been continuous in the month of January, leading the league with 11 games played amongst goaltenders.
Head coach of the Jets, Lennie Childs, went into detail on what it means to see Smith reaping the benefits of his hard work.
“Kaenan is a special goalie and a fantastic teammate. He has endured injury adversity and has overcome it with flying colors. He gives our team a chance to win every time he is in the net. We are very happy that Kaenan is reaping the benefits of his hard work and dedication to the game and our team.”
2nd Star: Declan Burns, D, Wisconsin Windigo
3rd Star: Parker Newman, F, Kenai River Brown Bears
South Star of the Week: Ben Vatis - Odessa Jackalopes
South Division Star of the Week: Ben Vatis, Goaltender, Odessa Jackalopes
Making a statement in the blue paint against the division leader and former team, Ben Vatis stood tall in the net over the weekend for the Jackalopes. The 6-foot netminder started his weekend off with a thrilling shootout victory on Friday night. Vatis stopped 27 out of 30 shots during regulation, before turning aside all three shootout attempts by Lone Star. The ‘06 goaltender from Phoenix, Arizona, would continue his dominance in the crease into Saturday night. The second-year veteran would dominate between the pipes because he would shut out the Brahmas with a 34-save performance. The 19-year-old is the only goaltender in the division to have shut out Lone Star this season.
For the weekend, Vatis secured two wins, spotlighting a 1.30 goals-against average and .954 save percentage. Since returning to the NAHL in January, the Arizona native has been on a tear for Odessa. He has won four of his five games played with the Jackalopes this season, with his lone loss happening in overtime.
Head coach of the Jackalopes, Scott Deur, explains what it means to see Vatis succeed so quickly.
“Ben has been good for us since he came back to us. He has given us a chance to win each and every game. We are happy to see him back and can not wait to see what the rest of the season is going to look like for him.”
2nd Star: Caden Hegarty, F, Amarillo Wranglers
3rd Star: Brock Fairbanks, F, New Mexico Ice Wolves
Bauer's Stars of the Week Week of January 26, 2026
Central Star of the Week: Noah Ziskie - Bismarck Bobcats
Central Division Star of the Week: Noah Ziskie, Defenseman, Bismarck Bobcats
Dominating from the blue line once again, Noah Ziskie produced a season-high five-point weekend. Starting on Friday night, the alternate captain had a season-high three-assist night. He notched back-to-back assists in the third frame for the Bobcats before producing the setup for Eddie Revenig’s overtime goal. His play-making in the third period continued into Saturday night. The 6-foot-2 defenseman provided the assist on both Bismarck goals in the third, helping his team send the matchup to overtime. The Bobcats would fall 4-3; however, his work on the ice helped his team secure a point for divisional standing purposes.
Ziskie is not new to the spotlight, earning his second Star of the Week honors this season. The last time he was named was October 13, 2025. During that month, he was also named the Defenseman of the Month for his 13-point performance. For the season, Ziskie ranks second overall in the NAHL among defensemen with 11 goals on the season. In addition, the Michigan native is the leading blueliner on the Bobcats with 33 total points on the season.
Head coach of the Bobcats, Garret Roth, explains why Ziskie has continued to develop his game with Bismarck.
“Noah has continued to elevate his game on the defensive end for us. He has done a great job offensively for us all season long. We are really proud of the strides Noah has made with his development on the defensive side of the puck and feel he has put himself in a great spot to play Division I hockey.”
2nd Star: Mikey Coleman, F, Austin Bruins
3rd Star: Brody Dietz, D, North Iowa Bulls
East Star of the Week: Logan Poulin - Northeast Generals
East Division Star of the Week: Logan Poulin, Forward, Northeast Generals
The 5-foot-10 lefty from Truro, Massachusetts, Logan Poulin, played a big role against a tough competitor over the weekend. On Friday night, the first-year skater picked up an assist on Spencer Hirsch’s tally in the third frame. The next night, Poulin was a driving force in helping the Generals secure their first win against the Black Bears this season. The ‘06 skater would tally the first goal of the game less than four minutes into the opening period. He would then light up the lamp again with a power-play goal midway through the middle frame. Poulin would show up on the scoresheet once again with a primary assist on Braydon Hudtloff’s goal in the final frame. Thanks to Poulin’s three-point performance, the Generals skated away with a big 7-2 victory.
For the weekend, Poulin produced a four-point weekend, tallying two goals and two assists. The 5-foot-10 forward ranks second on his roster for the season with 15 goals, while sits fifth overall with 25 total points on the season.
Head coach of the Generals, Bryan Erikson, explains why Poulin was a key player for Northeast over the weekend.
“Logan has been nothing short of sensational for us. He is a big, strong power forward who is a true goal scorer. He has a pro shot. After a lengthy absence due to an injury, Logan has been what we needed back in the lineup. Against a very good Maryland team, he was fantastic. He hit on every shift, defended well, and also led the scoring charge with two goals and two assists on the weekend. After failing to score on Friday, Logan stepped up big on Saturday and was a huge factor in the win. An amazing young man who is loved by his teammates. He is a big-time player.”
2nd Star: Jensen Carlstrom, G, Rochester Jr. Americans
3rd Star: Mikey Conlon, D, Philadelphia Rebels
Midwest Star of the Week: Joey Hyten - Janesville Jets
Midwest Division Star of the Week: Joey Hyten, Forward, Janesville Jets
Lighting the lamp multiple times this past weekend was Joey Hyten. The 6-foot captain played a crucial role in lifting his team to success against the Springfield Jr. Blues. Starting things off on Friday night, the Illinois native would show up on the scoresheet twice, thanks to his second two-goal performance of the season. Both tallies were scored in the second frame within five minutes of each other. The Jets would skate away with a big 5-1 victory. Moving into Saturday night, the game was much tighter, featuring a battle between the two rosters. Hyten would first show up on the scoresheet with a goal at the 4:16 minute mark of the opening period. He would then provide the setup to Murray Marvin-Cordes’ shorthanded tally in the second frame. The ‘06 skater would show up on the scoresheet once again, providing an assist on Hans Hedlund’s goal with 40 seconds left on the clock in the third. Despite the Jets falling 5-4 to the Jr. Blues, Hyten was crucial in keeping the contest tight.
For the weekend, the Edwardsville, Illinois native scored three goals while notching two assists. His offensive production has now extended to five-straight games of showing up on the scoresheet. This season, the second-year veteran leads his roster with 22 goals, 26 assists, and 48 total points.
Head coach of the Jets, Lennie Childs, shares more about Hyten’s leadership qualities.
“Joey has been the most consistent player in our lineup the entire season. He not only wears the ‘C’ for what he does on the ice, but also for how he carries himself away from the rink. He has shown game after game why he can play at the Division I level.”
2nd Star: Noah Dziver, F, Minnesota Wilderness
3rd Star: Dean Andrews, D, Fairbanks Ice Dogs
South Star of the Week: Jack L'Esperance - Odessa Jackalopes
South Division Star of the Week: Jack L’Esperance, Defenseman, Odessa Jackalopes
Tearing it up from the blue line, Jack L’Esperance notches his second South Division Star of the Week honors this season. The 5-foot-11 righty from Michigan kicked off his weekend on Friday night against the Corpus Christi IceRays. The alternate captain notched a two-assist performance, marking his eighth one this season. Moving into Saturday night, the third-year NAHL veteran played a crucial role in lifting his team to a 4-3 overtime victory. He first provided a primary assist on Caden Ghiossi’s second goal of the contest. As the IceRays tied up the game 3-3 in the third period, L’Esperance would be the hero in overtime, scoring in buzzer-beater fashion. The Jackalopes would skate away with a 4-3 victory thanks to the Michigan native’s quick hands.
For the weekend, L’Esperance tallied a game-winning goal while producing three assists. Over his last 10 games, the blueliner has shown up on the scoresheet in nine of them. The alternate captain ranks first on his roster with 46 points on the season, with a team-leading 33 assists. L’Esperance ranks first overall for defenseman in the League of Opportunity with 13 goals and his 46 points on the season.
Head coach of the Jackalopes, Scott Deur, went into detail on the development side he has seen from L’Esperance this season.
“Jack was really good this weekend. He’s been a leader for us on and off the ice. With his defensive ability getting better every week, his offensive side continues to take off. He’s really developing into a full defenseman, and we are glad to see that happen. As an organization, we are happy to see him get recognized as this week's star.”
2nd Star: Caden Ghiossi, F, Odessa Jackalopes
3rd Star: Johnny Maruna, F, Corpus Christi IceRays
Bauer's Stars of the Week Week of January 20, 2026
Central Star of the Week: Sam Crane - St. Cloud Norsemen
Central Division Star of the Week: Sam Crane, Forward, St. Cloud Norsemen
Hailing from Aurora, Illinois, Sam Crane dominated on the ice for the Norsemen over the weekend. The third-year veteran kicked off his weekend on Friday night during St. Cloud’s tight contest with the Watertown Shamrocks. First, Crane provided an assist on Samuel Misak’s goal in the second frame. Heading into the third period, the Shamrocks had the 2-1 edge over St. Cloud. Midway through the final period of regulation, the captain tied up the contest on the man advantage, forcing the game into extra minutes and an eventual shootout. The Norsemen would skate away with the victory in the shootout, looking to carry momentum into the next night.
On Saturday night, the 5-foot-8 forward featured a season-high night. Heading into the second intermission, the Norsemen had a 3-2 lead over Watertown. The Norsemen would add to their lead with major help from Crane. He would tally back-to-back goals 30 seconds apart while on the man advantage around the 11-minute mark. He would then notch an assist on Avry Shaw’s goal two minutes later before he provided the setup for Luke Pazzia’s goal in the final moments. His four-point night was spotlighted just in the third period of the game, helping to lift his team to a 7-3 win.
For the weekend, Crane sports a six-point weekend, tallying three goals and three assists. He leads his team with 12 tallies on the season, while ranks second with 26 total points.
Head coach of the Norsemen, Joe Exter, shares why Crane was a crucial skate in the Norsemen’s success this weekend.
“Sammy was a driving force behind our team’s success. The obvious part of his game was his production on the scoresheet. More importantly, Sammy stepped up in all situations playing detailed and physical which helped lead our team to four points.”
2nd Star: Matsvei Marshchanok, F, Austin Bruins
3rd Star: Cooper Williams, F, Bismarck Bobcats
East Star of the Week: Ryaw Shaw - Rochester Jr. Americans
East Division Star of the Week: Ryan Shaw, Forward, Rochester Jr. Americans
Securing his second Star of the Week honors, Ryan Shaw continues to show up big on the scoresheet, night after night. The 5-foot-10 lefty started his weekend off with a three-point night on Friday. He first tallied a goal with nine seconds to spare in the first frame to give his team the 1-0 lead heading into the intermission. Heading into the second period, Shaw would strike quickly, this time lighting the lamp a little over 30 seconds into the frame. The East Longmeadow, Massachusetts native would show up on the scoresheet once more with an assist on Keanan Dewberry’s tally in the final period. Rochester would skate away with a 5-1 victory.
Moving into Saturday night, Shaw would spotlight a two-point performance. He would tally a power-play goal in the opening frame to give the Jr. Americans a 2-0 lead. He would then provide the assist on Ryan Shaw’s tally less than a minute into the second period. Rochester would skate away again, with a big 8-1 victory.
Shaw sports a five-point weekend, tallying three goals while producing two assists. The ‘05 skater currently leads his roster with 29 goals and 54 points on the season as well.
2nd Star: Aiden McKenna, G, Elmira Aviators
3rd Star: Jack Klevby, F, Maine Nordiques
Midwest Star of the Week: Amir Valiullin - Springfield Jr. Blues
Midwest Division Star of the Week: Amir Valiullin, Goaltender, Springfield Jr. Blues
The 6’0 netminder, Amir Valiullin, picked up his first and second shutouts in his NAHL career this past weekend. Starting on Friday night, the 20-year-old stopped all 30 shots on net, allowing his team to secure a 4-0 victory against the Wisconsin Windigo. Moving into Saturday night, the Ufa, Russia native went on to stand tall in net, spotlighting a 28-save performance. He aided his team to a 3-0 victory and a weekend sweep against the Windigo. Valiullin was perfect in the net, sporting a 1.00 save percentage and 0.00 goals-against average.
The ‘05 netminder for the season features 11 wins, sporting a .919 save percentage and 2.48 goals-against average.
Head coach of the Jr. Blues, Todd Pococke, explains what he has seen from Valiullin.
“Amir has started off the new year playing very well, with last weekend being his best. He was very sound all weekend and came up big when he needed to.”
2nd Star: Kai Weigel, G, Anchorage Wolverines
3rd Star: Kaenan Smith, G, Janesville Jets
South Star of the Week: Ben Likness - Oklahoma Warriors
South Division Star of the Week: Ben Likness, Forward, Oklahoma Warriors
Hailing from Fargo, North Dakota, Ben Likness dominated on the scoresheet for the Warriors over the weekend. Kicking things off on Friday night, Likness sported a four-point affair at the Blazers Ice Centre. The ‘06 skater first provided a power-play assist on Kyle Sorensen’s tally at the 15:38 minute mark of the opening period. He would then show up again on the scoresheet in the final period of the contest. Likness would tally two goals three minutes apart before providing an assist on Jackson Hone’s goal at the 2:20 mark of the frame. Oklahoma would skate away with a 9-5 victory, with Likness playing a crucial role in the victory.
Moving into Saturday night, the 19-year-old would produce a two-point game, scoring a goal and making an assist in the second frame. The Warriors would fall 4-3; however, Likness played a crucial role in keeping the team in the fight.
Head coach of the Warriors, Mick Berge, shares why Likness was an asset this weekend.
“Ben has elevated his game this year and has been a huge part of our success as a team and he is very deserving of this award.”
2nd Star: Johnny Berndt, D, Shreveport Mudbugs
3rd Star: Sam Troutwine, D, Corpus Christi IceRays
Bauer's Stars of the Week Week of January 12, 2026
Central Star of the Week: Mason Gudridge - Watertown Shamrocks
Central Division Star of the Week: Mason Gudridge, Goaltender, Watertown Shamrocks
The young ‘07 netminder from the state of Colorado, Mason Gudridge, spotlighted dominant performances for the Shamrocks against one of the top opponents in the Central Division over the weekend. The 5-foot-9 goaltender was coming off being injured for the past couple of weeks and was making his 2026 debut with the team. He got his weekend started on Friday night with a 33-save performance against the former division leaders, the Austin Bruins. He helped to hold off four power-play opportunities by the Bruins, lifting his team to a 3-2 victory. Moving into Saturday night, the Bruins were looking for revenge; however, they could not complete a weekend split in South Dakota. Despite being outshot 48-15, the Shamrocks skated away with a 3-2 victory, once again thanks to Gudridge’s dominant performance in the crease. The Colorado netminder stopped a career-high 46 shots, notching a .958 save percentage in the lone game. Gudridge is the only goaltender in the Central Division to have delivered a sweep against the Bruins this season. In addition, Watertown is the only team able to sweep Austin so far in the 2025-26 campaign, with this series marking the second time.
For the weekend, the 18-year-old secured two wins, a 2.00 goals-against average, and a .952 save percentage. He stopped a total of 79 out of 83 shots between the two games. His defensive dominance in the blue paint has secured him 10 wins in his 19 games played this season. For the year, he sports a 2.68 goals-against average and a .919 save percentage. Despite having a couple of weekends off due to injury, his ability between the pipes has lifted his team to four straight wins. Gudridge is a second-year goaltender for Watertown, and this season, he gets the opportunity to play alongside his older brother, Jordan Gudridge.
Head coach of the Shamrocks, Casey Kirley, explains more about his organization’s excitement for Gudridge.
“We are happy that Mason was recognized as Central Division Star of the Week. He works tirelessly to improve every day. Mason has been a major contributor to our team over the past year and a half, and we look forward to his continued success.”
2nd Star: Ivan Sidorov, F, Minot Minotauros
3rd Star: Dane Callaway, G, Bismarck Bobcats
East Star of the Week: Austin Borggaard - Maine Nordiques
East Division Star of the Week: Austin Borggaard, Forward, Maine Nordiques
With three days until his birthday, the East Division Star of the Week honor is an early birthday treat for this Nordique skater. The 6-foot skater from Worcester, Massachusetts, Austin Borggaard, had back-to-back three-point games with the Nordiques. Kicking things off on Friday night, the Sacred Heart commit notched his second two-goal performance of the season. He first scored five-hole in the second period at the three-minute mark for the Nordiques. Following that, he would then provide an assist on Hutchison Rose’s tally in the final minutes of the game. Borggaard would cap off his three-point night with a buzzer-beater goal in the last second of the matchup. The ‘05 skater would contribute to three of the four goals on the scoresheet, helping his team skate away with a 4-1 victory over the New Jersey Titans.
Moving into Saturday evening, the Nordiques and Titans battled in a scoring affair of a game. Borggaard would first set up Henry Butte’s power-play tally in the second period, helping to bring the puck over the blue line. Following that, the first-year Nordiques would find twine himself with a speedy goal at the 15:58 minute mark of the third period. As the Titans make a third-period push with four back-to-back goals, it would be the Nordiques taking the victory in overtime. Borggaard would once again use his speed to bring the puck over the blue line, providing the key setup to Damon Myer’s overtime winner. Borggaard would skate away with his second three-point night while helping his team secure a sweep over New Jersey.
For the weekend, the Massachusetts native featured six points, tallying three goals and three assists. This series marked his best weekend in the League of Opportunity this season on the scoresheet. On his roster, Borggaard ranks first on his roster with 15 goals and 32 total points. This past summer, the first-year Nordiques skater was the first selection by Maine in the 2025 NAHL Entry Draft. He was selected in the 2nd round, 59th overall.
Head coach of the Nordiques, Nick Skerlick, shares why Borggaard has been an asset to Maine this season.
“Austin is offensively pushing the pace, his skating is second to none on the ice, and his ability to get to the net is at the top with the other divisions’ leaders. We are excited to see him become more defensively responsible as we get into the second half before he heads to an NCAA Division I level program."
2nd Star: Ryan Shaw, F, Rochester Jr. Americans
3rd Star: Rogie Cacciarelli, D, New Hampshire Mountain Kings
Midwest Star of the Week: Oliver Barna - Fairbanks Ice Dogs
Midwest Division Star of the Week: Oliver Barna, Forward, Fairbanks Ice Dogs
Earning his second Midwest Division Star of the Week honors, Oliver Barna spotlighted a career-high night on Friday night for the Ice Dogs. The 5-foot-11 forward is a second-year veteran of Fairbanks, and he showed up big on the scoresheet for the Ice Dogs’ first home game of 2026. He got his night started with a power-play tally at the 12:13 minute mark of the opening period. Less than five minutes later, the Hungarian skater would provide the primary setup on the man-advantage of Harrison Kaszubowski’s goal. The Ice Dogs would carry a 3-1 lead into the second period, where Barna would add to his team’s lead. The ‘06 skater would snipe the puck past the netminder in the first six minutes of the middle frame. Following that, the 19-year-old would be set up for a power-play one-timer, notching his first career hat trick in the process. As the contest progressed, Barna would show up on the scoresheet once more. This time, the 5-foot-11 forward forced a turnover by Janesville, allowing him to break away with the puck in the first two minutes of the final period. Barna skated away with a career-high five-point night, contributing to five of the eight goals scored in the game.
Barna played a vital role in the Ice Dogs’ victory on Friday. He secured the eventual game-winning goal of the contest. On his roster, the Dunaujvaros, Hungary native ranks first on his roster with 19 goals and 40 points on the year. His offensive production has almost tripled from last season.
Head coach of the Ice Dogs, Dakota Bell, shares what it was like to witness Barna exploding on the scoresheet on Friday night.
“We are thrilled for Oliver to receive this recognition as NAHL Midwest Division Star of the Week. His game Friday night here in Fairbanks was truly special, and it was great seeing the hats fly onto the ice from the home fans as he recorded four goals in total.”
“Oliver is an elite skater, and that’s been the difference maker for him this year,” said Bell. “Recently, he’s been shooting the puck more on-ice and building strength off-ice, which will help him secure a division one scholarship by season's end. Oliver has tremendous chemistry with his linemates, and they have helped drive us forward during our current eight-game win streak.”
2nd Star: Miles Robert, G, Fairbanks Ice Dogs
3rd Star: Max Larsson, G, Wisconsin Windigo
South Star of the Week: Xander Miceli - Corpus Christi IceRays
South Division Star of the Week: Xander Miceli, Goaltender, Corpus Christi IceRays
Showing up big for his team in net, Xander Miceli showcased back-to-back nights of domination between the pipes. The 6-foot-4 goaltender from the Volunteer State started his weekend on Friday night for the IceRays. Miceli secured his second-best performance in net, stopping 26 out of 27 shots by the Shreveport Mudbugs. He earned the 4-1 win in the blue paint while notching a .963 save percentage for the lone game. The 20-year-old would continue stopping shots in the crease on Saturday night, while securing his second shutout performance of the season. He turned away all 20 shots and stood tall in net during Shreveport’s six power plays. Miceli helped to lift his team to a weekend sweep over the Mudbugs.
Miceli spotlights a 0.50 goals-against average and a .979 save percentage for the weekend series. He extended his winning ways in net to four-straight games and played a key piece in the IceRays' success for the start of 2026. The Tennessee netminder has stepped up into a bigger role for Corpus Christi, serving as their starting goaltender for the team.
Head coach of the IceRays, Kevin St. Jacques, shares what it means to see Miceli awarded this honor.
“Xander is one of the nicest kids I have ever coached. It is good to see that his hard work is starting to pay off in the form of wins.”
2nd Star: Kyle Sorensen, F, Oklahoma Warriors
3rd Star: Jackson Vaites, F, Lone Star Brahmas
Bauer's Stars of the Week Week of January 5, 2026
Central Star of the Week: Gavin Hruza - Austin Bruins
Central Division Star of the Week: Gavin Hruza, Forward, Austin Bruins
The 6-foot skater hailing from West Fargo, North Dakota, Gavin Hruza spotlighted a dominant nine-point performance for the Bruins last week. His offensive production started on New Year’s Eve, securing a career-high four-point night. The Bruins hosted the Minnesota Mallards for an in-state battle midweek. The veteran skater clinched his first NAHL hat trick, netting all three goals in the second frame. He continued to show up on the scoresheet thanks to an assist on Hudson Routh’s tally in the final frame. Moving into Friday night, Austin continued the trend of battling in-state rivals, this time facing off with the St. Cloud Norsemen. The 6-foot lefty first scored on the power play in buzzer-beater fashion in the first period to give the Bruins the lead heading into the intermission. This tally would be named the game-winning goal of the contest. Hruza would then score his second of the night in the middle frame on a breakaway. His two-goal performance marked his fifth multi-goal night of the season.
Heading into Saturday night, Hruza would secure a three-point night in his team’s 4-1 victory over St. Cloud. The second-year veteran would first provide the primary assist on Matsvei Marshchanok's goal in the first three minutes of the game. The North Dakota native would then score his eighth power-play goal of the season in the second period with less than two minutes on the clock. As the contest looked to wind down in the third, Hruza would produce the setup to the last Central Division Star of the Week, EJ Paddington’s goal at the 3:28 minute mark.
The 20-year-old dominated on the ice for the Bruins over the three games, tallying six goals while making three assists. Two of his goals were scored on the man advantage, while one tally was the game-winner. Hruza is not just recently finding success offensively; he is riding a 14-game point streak with the Bruins that began on November 21, 2025. 29 of his 36 points this season come from that 14-game heater. On his roster, he is tied first with 19 goals on the year and leads alone with his five game-winning goals. The second-year forward is the fourth Austin player to earn a weekly honor this season.
Head coach of the Bruins, Steve Howard, shares what he has seen so far from Hruza.
“Gavin has been outstanding this year, and he has really developed into a top player for us! He has been on a hot streak, and we want him to keep it going in the second half of the season.”
2nd Star: William Braun, G, Aberdeen Wings
3rd Star: Marko Bilic, G, Bismarck Bobcats
East Star of the Week: Harrison Smith - Maryland Black Bears
East Division Star of the Week: Harrison Smith, Forward, Maryland Black Bears
The hero in overtime for the Black Bears this weekend, Harrison Smith, continues to show why he is the league leader in points. Maryland went to New York to take on the Elmira Aviators in a two-game set. Smith played a key offensive role in both games for the Black Bears, securing back-to-back three-point nights. Starting on Friday night, Maryland struck first, tallying three consecutive goals in the first frame. The Sacred Heart commit first provided the setup to Ryan Franks’ goal midway through the opening period. Less than five minutes later, Smith would record a takeaway in the offensive zone and provide a primary assist on Franks’ hat-trick goal. While the Black Bears had a cushioned 3-0 lead, the Aviators were able to battle back and even the score 3-3. As the matchup moved into extra minutes, Smith took it into his own hands in overtime and scored the game-winning goal 41 seconds into the overtime frame.
Heading into Saturday, Maryland was looking to continue their winning ways on the road. The matchup would be a battle with both teams striking back and forth. The 5-foot-10 forward would first provide an assist on Tanner Duncan’s power-play goal in the second frame to even the scoreboard 2-2. As the matchup moved into the third period, Maryland was in the hunt for their first lead of the night. With 5:22 on the clock, the Florida native would find the back of the net to give the Black Bears the 3-2 edge. However, Elmira would not back down from the battle. The Aviators would tie the contest with less than a minute on the clock. As the game once again moved into overtime, the second-year veteran would take Maryland’s fate into his own hands. Smith would score from almost the blue line around the three-minute mark, marking his fourth multi-goal game of the season. His back-to-back overtime goals sealed the Black Bears’ sweep for the weekend.
The Sunshine State skater has dominated this season on the scoresheet, just like he did on the ice this past weekend. He produced six points, tallying three goals and three assists. His ability to secure points is why he leads the league with 63 points and 45 assists. Smith’s offensive production is featured in almost every game this season for Maryland. He has shown up on the scoresheet in 28 out of 31 games played. He is riding a 13-game point streak starting on November 11, 2025. The ‘06 skater features a league-leading 2.03 points per game and is tied in first with his +30 rating. This award marks the second time the 19-year-old has been named as an East Division Star of the Week. Smith has also been named as the runner-up twice for Forward of the Month (October and November).
Head coach of the Black Bears, Clint Mylymok, shares what has impressed him the most about Smith’s work on the ice.
“Smitty has been impressive on the ice in many areas, but the most impressive part of this kid is his leadership and his passion to be a difference maker. We are not surprised by his production, and there is no one more suited to big moments than this kid.”
2nd Star: Will Mizenko, G, Northeast Generals
3rd Star: Jon Dukaric, G, Danbury Hat Tricks
Midwest Star of the Week: Noah Dziver - Minnesota Wilderness
Midwest Division Star of the Week: Noah Dziver, Forward, Minnesota Wilderness
Earning his second weekly award is the Wilderness captain, Noah Dziver. The 6-foot skater hails from Winnipeg, Manitoba. Dziver featured a season-high 11-point week, while notching a season-high game on Saturday night. His week, however, kicked off on the New Year with a midweek matchup against the Chippewa Steel. His offensive production would start with a primary assist on Robinson Djian’s shorthanded goal at the 17-second mark of the opening frame. Dziver would show up on the scoresheet once more, this time with a goal of his own in the second period. The second-year forward would score 90 seconds into the middle period, giving Minnesota a 3-0 lead over Chippewa. The Wilderness would skate away with a win and were hungry to continue their winning ways at home, this time against the Kenai River Brown Bears.
Friday night hockey spotlighted the captain producing his fifth three-point night of the season. Dziver would score on the man advantage less than six minutes into the matchup from the faceoff circle. The 6-foot righty would then provide the primary assist on Max Edward’s power-play goal in the second frame, giving Minnesota the 4-0 lead moving into the final period. In the final minutes of the game, the Brown Bears would pull their goaltender to give their team the man advantage. However, Dziver secured the turnover around the 1:25 minute mark and provided the assist on Talan Blanck’s empty-net goal. Moving into Saturday night, the Wilderness were looking to secure win number four in a row. The lamp was lit for the first time at the 16:16 minute mark by Andrei Gudin in the opening period, thanks to a primary assist by Dziver. Less than 10 minutes later, the 20-year-old would then strip the puck from the Brown Bears and score on a breakaway in shorthanded fashion. His offensive production does not stop there. Dziver would continue his offensive abilities in the third and final period with four assists, three of them on Zachary Homer’s goals. The Canadian would skate away with a season-high six-point night, contributing to every goal in the 6-3 victory.
The captain produced three goals and eight assists last week. He currently rides a five-game multi-point streak for the Wilderness. Dziver leads his team with 46 points, 29 assists, and his +18 rating, while sitting second with his 17 tallies for the season. The ‘05 forward is also tied in fourth place in the league with his 46 points on the year, while in third place in the league amongst qualified skaters with his 1.7 points per game. This award marks the second time Dziver has been named to a weekly honor. He was also named previously as Forward of the Month for his work in October on the ice.
Head Coach of the Wilderness, Zach Stepan, explains more on why Dziver is not only a leader on the ice, but off it as well.
“Noah Dziver continues to set the standard for our group, and this past weekend was another perfect example of why he wears the ‘C’. Putting up 11 points in three games is impressive on its own, but what stands out most is the leadership, pace, and competitiveness he brings every single shift. Coming out of the Christmas break, Noah was clearly determined to make a statement, and he did exactly that. The truth is, this isn’t just a hot weekend; he has been doing it all season. He drives our locker room, he drives our bench, and he consistently finds ways to elevate everyone around him.”
2nd Star: Zach Homer, F, Minnesota Wilderness
3rd Star: Beau Kralovec, F, Wisconsin Windigo
South Star of the Week: Grayson Gerhard - Shreveport Mudbugs
South Division Star of the Week: Grayson Gerhard, Forward, Shreveport Mudbugs
A third-year NAHL South Division veteran, Grayson Gerhard, recorded a career-high night over the weekend, helping to lift the Mudbugs to a weekend sweep over the New Mexico Ice Wolves. The 6-foot-3 forward has played 145 games in the NAHL during his tenure. His offensive production has continued to rise year after year, and his prowess hit a new high on Friday night. In the first period, around the 2:15-minute mark, Gerhard raced from the faceoff to gain possession of the puck to provide an assist on Chase Secriskey's goal at the 2:09-minute mark. Then, 17 seconds later, the Texas native would be a catalyst in Owen Case’s first goal, notching an assist again. Moving into the second period, the 20-year-old would tally his first goal of the night four minutes into the frame. He would find the back of the net from in front of the blue paint to give Shreveport a cushioned 4-1 lead. Gerhard would then tally his second two-goal performance of the season in the final period with 13:58 on the clock. His four-point night was a career high for him.
Heading into Saturday night, Shreveport was looking to secure the sweep over the Ice Wolves; however, New Mexico came out striking first in the opening period with back-to-back goals. Shreveport would respond with two power-play tallies of its own in the first frame. As New Mexico retook the lead in the second period, the Mudbugs had some work to do in the final 20 minutes of regulation. From the faceoff around the 15:30 minute mark in the third, Gerhard would secure possession of the puck and deliver an assist to Jeremiah Roberts’ power-play goal seconds later. His ability to secure possession once again from the faceoff would be rewarded a minute and a half later in the frame. Evan Hoglund would score his hat-trick goal thanks to a setup by Gerhard. The Mudbugs would secure the sweep and even the series against New Mexico to 2-2.
The Lone Star State skater was traded midseason from the Corpus Christi IceRays. The 20-year-old spotlighted a six-point performance between the two games, tallying two goals and four assists. In his last 10 games, Gerhard has shown up on the scoresheet in eight out of 10 of them. Right now, he features four consecutive multi-point contests. The 6-foot-3 forward is the second Mudbug this season to earn a South Division Star of the Week honor.
Head coach of the Mudbugs, Jason Campbell, went into detail on what he has seen from Gerhard in his short time with Shreveport.
“Grayson is off to a great start since coming to Shreveport. This past weekend has been his best from a production standpoint, and it came at a great time for our team. He’s playing with a lot of poise and confidence right now, and that makes him hard to defend. He and his teammates are going to continue to find ways to put the right kind of work into getting the most positive results.”
2nd Star: Tommy Shore, D, El Paso Rhinos
3rd Star: Evan Hoglund, F, Shreveport Mudbugs
Bauer's Stars of the Week Week of December 22, 2025
Central Star of the Week: EJ Paddington - Austin Bruins
Central Division Star of the Week: EJ Paddington, Forward, Austin Bruins
A second-year skater for the Bruins, EJ Paddington played a crucial role in the Bruins’ success on the road against the Aberdeen Wings. The 6-foot-4 lefty kicked off his weekend with a three-point performance on Friday night. Paddington helped Austin battle from behind in the second frame of the game. Heading into the middle period, the Bruins were down 2-1. The Thunder Bay, Ontario native first secured a primary assist on Alex Perrault’s tally at the 19:03 minute mark. Paddington would then secure a power-play assist less than three minutes later on Gavin Hruza’s goal. Midway through the frame, the second-year veteran would find twine, now giving Austin the 4-2 lead. His ability to change the momentum of the game helped his team secure the 5-2 victory over the Wings.
Moving into Saturday night, the ‘05 skater would notch his fifth two-goal performance in his NAHL career. His first tally came five minutes into the contest on a breakaway from the blue line. Paddington would score his second goal of the contest midway through the second period. The 6-foot-4 skater scored off the face-off to give Austin the 3-1 lead heading into the final period.
His offensive production helped the Bruins secure a weekend sweep over the Wings while securing his team the number one spot in the Central Division standings. For the weekend, Paddington spotlighted a five-point performance, tallying three goals and two assists. On his roster, Paddington is tied for second with 16 goals and fourth overall with 32 points on the year.
Head coach of the Bruins, Steve Howard, explains what he has seen from Paddington this season.
“Our organization could not be happier for EJ earning this honor! He continues to show up on the scoresheet and plays the game the right way. He is a power forward who works hard on and off the ice.”
2nd Star: Fuji Suzuki, F, North Iowa Bulls
3rd Star: Dane Callaway, G, Bismarck Bobcats
East Star of the Week: Sam Schulte - Rochester Jr. Americans
East Division Star of the Week: Sam Schulte, Defenseman, Rochester Jr. Americans
Making an impact in his debut weekend as a Jr. American, Sam Schulte spotlighted career-high numbers in his first two games with Rochester. Kicking things off on Friday night, the Minnesota native lit the lamp first with a tally while skating in from the blue line. He would continue to be an offensive catalyst with three assists in the contest. The ‘07 blueliner first provided the primary assist on Colin Dustin’s shorthanded goal at the 3:40 minute mark in the opening frame. He would then provide the assists on Owen King’s power-play goal and then Corson Maguire’s goal in the final three minutes of the game. That lone game marked his first four-point contest in his NAHL career.
Heading into game two on Saturday night, Schulte would strike first once again, almost at the same minute mark from the first game. The 6-foot-1 blueliner would find the back of the net at the 8:28 minute mark after scoring the night before at the 8:27 minute mark. His offensive prowess would continue in the contest. He provided a power-play assist on Adam Gionta’s goal less than a minute after his own tally. Schulte would notch his second power-play assist of the night on Owen King’s goal in the final frame.
The Army West Point commit secured a seven-point weekend in his debut as a Jr. American. He scored two goals while making five assists for Rochester.
Head coach of the Jr. Americans, Francois Methot, shares more on what he has seen from Schulte in a short amount of time.
“Sam was acquired midweek and made sure to arrive on time for our weekend games. We realized very quickly that he is a special talent. He quickly adapted to our style of play and contributed significantly to both wins against a strong, well-coached Danbury team. We are looking forward to starting to work with him and making him college-ready.”
2nd Star: Skogen Schrott, F, New Jersey Titans
3rd Star: Damon Myers, F, Maine Nordiques
Midwest Star of the Week: Sammy Doyon-Cataquiz - Springfield Jr. Blues
Midwest Division Star of the Week: Sammy Doyon-Cataquiz, Goaltender, Springfield Jr. Blues
Hailing from Falls Church, Virginia, Sammy Doyon-Cataquiz has made his mark as a dominant goaltender with his work between the pipes. The 6-foot-2 netminder kicked off his weekend series on Thursday night against the Anchorage Wolverines. The contest started with the Wolverines taking the lead first; however, the Jr. Blues struck back and added insurance in the third period. Springfield would skate away with a 5-2 win. Between the pipes, Doyon-Cataquiz stopped 29 out of 31 shots on net, extending his win streak to four straight games. Heading into Friday night, the Quinnipiac commit had a lights-out performance while notching his first shutout. Doyon-Cataquiz turned away all 35 shots, helping to lift his team to a 3-0 victory. Saturday night, the 18-year-old replicated his performance in the blue paint. He stopped all 35 shots, earning his second shutout in his career in back-to-back fashion.
Doyon-Cataquiz continues to dominate for the Jr. Blues, spotlighting six consecutive wins, not losing once while between the pipes. Over the weekend, he spotlights a .067 goals-against average over the three games and a .980 save percentage. He faced a total of 101 shots over the series, stopping 99 of them.
Head coach of the Jr. Blues, Todd Pococke, explains what he has seen from the goalie in his short time with Springfield.
“Sammy has come in and been a rock for us right away. His competitive level is extremely high at all times. He makes the right saves but also makes the big saves when he needs to. We’re very proud of him, and his back-to-back shutouts were well earned.”
2nd Star: Oliver Barna, F, Fairbanks Ice Dogs
3rd Star: Kyle Rohrer, F, Fairbanks Ice Dogs
South Star of the Week: Leo Gabriel - Lone Star Brahmas
South Division Star of the Week: Leo Gabriel, Goaltender, Lone Star Brahmas
The 18-year-old hailing from the State of Hockey, Leo Gabriel showcased his dominant work in the blue paint and secured his first weekend sweep in the blue paint. The 6-foot netminder started his weekend on Friday night at George’s Pond against the Shreveport Mudbugs. Through the first frame, Gabriel stopped all eight shots on net. Midway through the second frame, the 18-year-old allowed one lone goal and never looked back. He spotlighted an 18-save performance, helping his team to a 4-1 victory on the road. Moving into Saturday night, it was a battle in the blue paint as both teams traded chances. With the first and second period scoreless, it was shaping out to be an exciting third period. Gabriel was able to stop all 25 shots on net, securing the first shutout of his NAHL career. The Brahmas skated away with a tight 1-0 victory thanks to Gabriel’s ability between the pipes.
The first-year netminder only allowed one goal between the two games. He spotlights a 0.50 goals-against average and a .978 save percentage between the two games. On the season, Gabriel has not lost in net during regulation and has not allowed more than two goals in any game this season.
Head coach of the Brahmas, Dan Wildfong, dives into detail on Gabriel’s work this past weekend.
“Leo had an unbelievable weekend. He was playing his best hockey and had stepped up on all marks. He featured great rebound control while having a consistent game. The Brahmas would not have won the series without him.”
2nd Star: Sean Gibbons, F, New Mexico Ice Wolves
3rd Star: Billy Stuski, G, Oklahoma Warriors
Bauer's Stars of the Week Week of December 15, 2025
Central Star of the Week: Brian Cooke - Minot Minotauros
The 17-year-old hailing from the Show Me State, Brian Cooke, dominated between the pipes for the Tauros over the weekend. Kicking things off on Friday night, the 6-foot-2 netminder secured the first shutout of his junior career. The contest was a scoreless affair for all three periods of regulation hockey. As the game moved into overtime, the Tauros were able to secure the 1-0 victory thanks to a tally by Evan Foiles. Cooke spotlighted a 23-save performance in the blue paint. Moving into Saturday night, the College of the Holy Cross commit was between the pipes once again for Minot. The young ‘08 goaltender allowed just one goal by the St. Cloud Norsemen. As teddy bears flew in the game, Cooke turned aside 24 out of 25 shots, helping to earn the victory for the Minotauros. The Missouri native sports a weekend-best 0.49 goals-against average and .979 save percentage.
Cooke is a rookie netminder in the NAHL. He first got a taste of what the League of Opportunity had to offer while playing the T1ER with the Carshield program. This past weekend, he only allowed one goal over 121 minutes of hockey while clinching his first back-to-back wins of the season. This honor marks the first Minot Minotauro to win a Star of the Week honors this season.
General Manager of the Minotauros, Cody Campbell, explains what he saw from Cooke this weekend.
“Brian was solid all weekend. He made some timely saves and did a good job of controlling the game. We were proud of the entire group's effort to limit opportunities over the course of the weekend, but when we needed a save, Brian made it. We look forward to him continuing his solid play.”
2nd Star: Sam Scheetz, F, Aberdeen Wings
3rd Star: Camden Alemond, F, Bismarck Bobcats
East Star of the Week: Kalib Capecci - Johnstown Tomahawks
East Division Star of the Week: Kalib Capecci, Defenseman, Johnstown Tomahawks
Ready to be a difference maker from the blue line, Kalib Capecci, spotlights a weekend best this season with the Tomahawks. The 6-foot skater from Monroeville, New Jersey, was a crucial piece in Johnstown’s weekend sweep over the Maine Nordiques. Kicking things off on Friday night, Capecci scored the game-winning goal for the Tomahawks in the second frame. With five minutes on the clock in the second, Cappeci found the back of the net to give Johnstown some insurance. He and his team would skate away with a 4-2 victory. Heading into Saturday night, Cappeci secured his second multi-point performance since late October. The New Jersey native first secured an assist on Charlie Zetterkvist’s power-play goal in the first period. The skater would then go on to help the Tomahawks take the lead in the third frame with a goal of his own. Johnstown would seal their weekend sweep with an overtime 3-2 victory on Saturday night, and Cappeci was a huge part of his team’s success.
For the weekend, the defenseman spotlighted two goals and an assist for his team, while securing a career weekend-high. The ‘06 blueliner is the leading scorer among defensemen on his roster. This year, he has scored six goals, made 14 assists, and totaled 20 points. Cappeci is a product of the T1ER skating with the Philadelphia Hockey Club over three seasons. His movement from the T1ER to the NAHL is a pure example of the Ladder of Development that the league promotes.
Head coach of the Tomahawks, Adam Houli, shares more on Cappeci’s weekend.
“Kalib has been excellent all year for us, and this weekend he was really dialed in. He is a very strong defender, especially in 1-vs-1 situations, and was able to add to his offensive play for us, helping secure a sweep. He is an exceptional player for us who we rely on to play heavy minutes against other teams' top players.”
2nd Star: Tanner Duncan, F, Maryland Black Bears
3rd Star: Ryan Shaw, F, Rochester Jr. Americans
Midwest Star of the Week: Kevin Lysohir - Minnesota Wilderness
Midwest Division Star of the Week: Kevin Lyoshir, Forward, Minnesota Wilderness
Playing against his former team for the first time this season, Kevin Lyoshir lit up the scoresheet with the Wilderness. The 5-foot-9 Quinnipiac commit first showcased a season-high performance on Friday night. Lyoshir got his night started in the second frame. He first secured an assist on Zachary Homer’s tally less than one minute into the period. The 17-year-old would then go on to score a power-play goal eight minutes later. Following that, Lyoshir would show up on the scoresheet one more time. The New York native would secure another assist on Zachary Homer’s goal, with this one being scored at the four-minute mark. His three-point night was done in a matter of 15 minutes in the second period. The Wilderness would dominate and secure an 8-2 victory against the Steel. Heading into Saturday night, the matchup would feature a much-tighter affair at the Chippewa Ice Arena. The ‘08 skater would first find the back of the net with a power-play tally at the 7:30-minute mark of the opening period. As the contest progressed, the Steel were able to tighten up the contest 3-3 in the third period. With 41 seconds left on the clock, the Wilderness would light the lamp. Lysohir provided a power-play assist on Zachary Homer’s goal. Minnesota would edge out a 4-3 road win and a weekend sweep.
The 17-year-old spotlighted a career-high five-point weekend and a three-point single-game high on the road. Both power-play tallies marked his first and second man-advantage goals of the season with the Wilderness. This season, Lysohir has featured four goals and six assists with the Wilderness. The 5-foot-9 lefty is the first Wilderness player to earn a weekly honor since late October when Jakeb Lynch took home the title.
Head coach of the Wilderness, Zach Stepan, shares his excitement for Lysohir award and shares more on what he has seen from him.
“Kevin Lysohir had a weekend where he showed his offensive gifts and his ability to make plays. I know for him, there was some extra motivation playing against his former team, so this will be a fun award for him. It’s been good to see his willingness to buy into our team's systems, values, and sense of culture here, coming in as a young kid to a new team midseason. I feel that has been why he has been playing so well. We are excited for him and hope his success continues to build.”
2nd Star: Sam Schulte, D, Chippewa Steel
3rd Star: Noah Dziver, F, Minnesota Wilderness
South Star of the Week: Billy Stuski - Oklahoma Warriors
South Division Star of the Week: Billy Stuski, Goaltender, Oklahoma Warriors
Hailing from the Keystone State and serving as the keystone piece between the pipes this weekend, Billy Stuski helped to lift the Warriors to a series win against the Odessa Jackalopes. Starting on Friday night, the 6-foot-2 netminder came into the contest in relief after 10 minutes of goaltending by last week’s South Division Star of the Week, Jakob Hanlan. While the Warriors might have fallen in a 5-0 shutout fashion, Stuski’s ability to respond in the following two games is why he ultimately won the honor. On Saturday night, it was shaping out to be a shootout rematch between the teams. After goaltending in a 12-round shootout a few weeks ago against each other, Stuski was on the prowl to secure the victory. The 20-year-old first stopped 42 shots in the 65 minutes of game play before netminding in the shootout. Stuski allowed one lone goal in the five-round shootout, helping to lift his team to a 2-1 victory. As the series moved into Sunday for a matinee matchup, both teams were looking to secure a series win. The ‘05 netminder showcased a 43-save performance in the 6-1 win against the Jackalopes. One lone skater was able to score on Stuski on Saturday night and Sunday afternoon during regulation. That skater is the South’s Third Star of the Week, Caden Ghiossi.
The alternate captain faced a total of 116 shots over the weekend, with Saturday and Sunday being 40+ shot games. He spotlights a 2-0 record, a .966 save percentage, and a 1.20 goals-against average from the weekend. This honor marks the third time a Warrior has won a weekly award.
2nd Star: Kevin Jones, G, Odessa Jackalopes
3rd Star: Caden Ghiossi, F, Odessa Jackalopes
Bauer's Stars of the Week Week of December 8, 2025
Central Star of the Week: Siamion Marshchanok - Austin Bruins
Central Division Star of the Week: Siamion Marshchanok, Forward, Austin Bruins
Earning his second Star of the Week honors, Siamion Marshchanok, the Belarus native, lit up the scoresheet while playing a critical role in his team’s success over the weekend. The 5-foot-9 lefty started his weekend off with a two-point performance on Friday night. The Bruins were facing a divisional rival, the Bismarck Bobcats, in a two-game set. With both teams tied in the Central Division standings, this was going to be an exciting contest to watch. Heading into the second period of the game, the Bruins were up 1-0. Marshchanok helped to add to the lead with a primary assist on his twin brother’s power-play goal at the 55-second mark. The Bruins would feature a 2-0 lead heading into the final period, thanks to his offensive skill set. The Bobcats would cut the Bruins’ lead in half early in the third. However, the ‘05 skater responded with a power-play goal midway through the final frame, which would be the eventual game-winner. Austin would secure a 3-2 victory and critical points in the standings.
Moving into Saturday, Marshchanok continued his offensive prowess with a three-point night. Early in the first period, the Belarus native would produce a power-play assist on his twin brother’s goal. As the game progressed into the second frame, the 20-year-old would help to even the score 2-2 with another power-play assist, this time on EJ Paddington’s goal. Marshchanok would show up on the scoresheet once again with an unassisted goal at the 4:16 minute mark of the middle frame. At that time, the Bruins were up 4-2; however, the tides would turn, and the Bobcats would claw back to a 5-4 victory. Despite the team earning a loss, Marshchanok played a crucial role in keeping his team’s chances alive. The Belarus native played a role in every goal except one in each contest, while featuring a +3 rating on the weekend.
For the weekend, the first-year NAHL skater spotlights a five-point weekend, tallying two goals and three assists. The 20-year-old is riding a nine-game multi-point streak dating back to November 14, 2025. Marshchanok is one of the top skaters on his team and in the league. He leads his team in goals (14), assists (26), total points (40), and power-play goals (8). His total points for the year rank him second overall in the league and currently tie first in the power-play tally column. He and his twin are ranked as the top two skaters on the plus-minus rating. Matsvei Marshchanok sits first with a +22 rating, while Siamion sits in second place with a +20 rating. His offensive prowess has been recognized before, winning September’s Forward of the Month and a Central Division Star of the Week honor on September 29, 2025.
Head coach of the Bruins, Steve Howard, goes into detail on the contribution that Marshchanok makes for the team.
“Siamion is a true difference maker, and he continues to drive our offense. He’s proven he can score in all situations, and it’s been a lot of fun to watch him these last few months. Our coaching staff is excited to help him continue to develop here and to see what he accomplishes throughout the rest of the season.”
2nd Star: Beck Liden, G, St. Cloud Norsemen
3rd Star: Wyatt Farrell, F, St. Cloud Norsemen
East Star of the Week: Ryan Shaw - Rochester Jr. Americans
East Division Star of the Week: Ryan Shaw, Forward, Rochester Jr. Americans
Playing against a team he once laced up for, Ryan Shaw laid down the offensive law over the weekend and helped to lift his team to a weekend sweep at the Middletown Sports Complex. The 5-foot-10 lefty from Massachusetts kicked off his offensive tear on Friday night. The matchup kicked off with the New Jersey Titans securing the lead early as the Jr. Americans had to battle from behind. Being down 3-1 heading into the second period, Rochester looked to respond. Less than three minutes into the frame, Shaw notched a primary assist on Cameron Doran’s goal. As the contest moved into the final 20 minutes of regulation, the Jr. Americans would need an offensive push, and Shaw was an important factor in that. He first produced an assist on Konner Powell’s second goal of the night before finding the back of the net himself at the 7:09 minute mark. His three-point performance was a critical factor in his team’s 6-5 come-from-behind victory.
Heading into Saturday night, the alternate captain would do a career first. In Rochester’s 3-0 shutout victory, it was only Shaw lighting the lamp. The ‘05 forward produced his first hat trick thanks to a two-goal first period and tally midway through the final frame. For the weekend, Shaw featured four goals and two assists between the two matchups. The 20-year-old ranks as one of the top skaters on his team and in the league. He sits first on the Jr. Americans in goals (20), assists (17), and total points (37). The 5-foot-10 lefty ranks second overall in the league with 20 tallies on the year, while ranking in fifth place with his 37 total points.
2nd Star: Jon Dukaric, G, Danbury Hat Tricks
3rd Star: Harrison Smith, F, Maryland Black Bears
Midwest Star of the Week: Brayden Sprickman - Springfield Jr. Blues
Midwest Division Star of the Week: Brayden Sprickman, Defenseman, Springfield Jr. Blues
Playing from the blue line and dominating offensively, Brayden Sprickman was a crucial component of keeping games tight and helping the Jr. Blues secure victories. Springfield’s weekend kicked off on Thursday night against the Kenai River Brown Bears. The 6-foot-4 defenseman notched an assist on James Marshall’s goal in the opening frame. Springfield would eventually secure a 5-4 win in this matchup. Hailing from the Keystone State, and playing a keystone role in Friday night’s contest, Sprickman would secure a career-first. The Brown Bears grabbed a first-period lead with a trio of goals scored. As the game moved into the second period, Springfield was down 3-1. The 20-year-old first showed up on the scoresheet with a tally less than two minutes into the second frame. He would light the lamp again with 40 seconds left on the clock, this time on the power play. Sprickman tied the contest with his two-goal performance in the second. As the game moved into the third period, Kenai River retook the lead with two goals scored in the final few minutes of the game. However, Sprickman responded with a very late third-period tally. His late-game heroics would secure him his first hat trick; however, the Jr. Blues would fall 5-4. Heading into Saturday, Springfield has revenge on their mind. The contest kicked off with Kenai River grabbing a short-lived first-period lead. The ‘05 skater would respond four seconds after the Brown Bears' goal with his own. Sprickman would find the back of the net thanks to a setup by Josh Zitzman and Zach Howard. The 6-foot-4 defenseman would later secure his second point of the night with a primary assist on James Marshall’s goal in the third period. The Jr. Blues would skate away with a 5-2 victory and a series win.
Over the three-game set, Sprickman featured a six-point performance. The Erie, Pennsylvania native tallied four goals while making two assists over three games. On his team, Sprickman leads defensemen with six tallies on the season and sits third overall with a +5 rating. Over the summer, Sprickman was drafted in the sixth round by the Jr. Blues through the NAHL Entry Draft.
Head coach of the Jr. Blues, Todd Pococke, explains the progress and development he has seen from Sprickman this season.
“Brayden has really stepped up his game as of late, both offensively and defensively. He helps push the pace on the back end for us every night. This was very well earned, and we’re extremely happy for him!”
2nd Star: Alexios Georgaklis, F, Wisconsin Windigo
3rd Star: Zach Howard, F, Springfield Jr. Blues
South Star of the Week: Jakob Hanlan - Oklahoma Warriors
South Division Star of the Week: Jakob Hanlan, Goaltender, Oklahoma Warriors
The 6-foot netminder from Gatineau, Quebec, Canada, Jakob Hanlan, spotlighted a dominant weekend between the pipes, while picking up his first two wins as a Warrior. Hanlan was a recent acquisition of Oklahoma, being traded from an in-division rival, the El Paso Rhinos. Ironically enough, his first start as a Warrior comes against his former team. On Friday night, the 18-year-old stopped 39 out of 41 shots on net, helping to lift his team to a 5-2 victory. He spotlighted a .951 save percentage, a season-high at that point, from that lone contest. Heading into Saturday night, the ‘07 netminder secured a NAHL career first, a shutout. Hanlan was perfect between the pipes, notching a 30-save shutout, topping his former season-high save percentage.
For the weekend, the young goaltender secured two victories, a 1.00 goals-against average, and a .972 save percentage. On the season, Hanlan features a .911 save percentage and 2.77 goals-against average.
Head coach of the Warriors, Mick Berge, explains how crucial Hanlan was in Oklahoma’s success this weekend.
“We are very excited for Jakob. He is very deserving of this honor and was a key component to our success this weekend.”
2nd Star: Charles-Antoine Girard, G, Amarillo Wranglers
3rd Star: Andy Earl, F, New Mexico Ice Wolve
Bauer's Stars of the Week Week of December 1, 2025
Central Star of the Week: Zach Boren - Watertown Shamrocks
Central Division Star of the Week: Zach Boren, Forward, Watertown Shamrocks
The Alternate Captain of the Shamrocks, Zach Boren, featured an anything but boring weekend. The 6-foot-1 lefty kicked off his offensively dominant week with a one-goal performance against the Aberdeen Wings on Wednesday night, extending his point streak to seven straight games. Moving into Friday night, the West Fargo, North Dakota native returned to his home state to take on the Minot Minotauros. The 20-year-old first tallied a goal at the 14:44 minute mark in the second frame to extend Watertown’s lead to 3-1. Less than 10 minutes later, Boren delivered the primary assist on Kyle Greene’s game-winning goal. He helped to lift his team to a decisive 7-4 victory over the Tauros. Heading into Saturday night, the third-year NAHL veteran showcased a career-high night. Boren would get the scoring started quickly with a power-play tally less than a minute into the opening period. With 14:56 on the clock in the first frame, Boren provides the primary assist on Kyle Greene’s goal. His offensive push does not stop there. The North Dakota native would find the back of the net midway through the frame to give Watertown the 3-0 lead. The ‘05 skater would show up on the scoresheet again when he produced a primary assist at the 14:26 minute mark on Carter Sproule’s tally in the final frame. Boren would finish his night in anything but a boring way. He would find the back of the net one more time, securing his hat trick with a power-play goal midway through the third period. Boren would secure a five-point night, helping his team win a 8-2 dominant fashion.
The second-year Watertown sported an eight-point week, tallying five goals and three assists. Boren is an offensive force on his roster, ranking first overall with 12 goals on the season, while sitting in second with 25 points. Boren has played over 100 games in the NAHL, spotlighting 65 career points over the three seasons.
Head coach of the Shamrocks, Casey Kirley, shares more on Boren’s work ethic.
“Zach has been a great player for us since arriving in Watertown last season. He leads by example through his effort and the extra work he puts in. He has grown his game offensively over the past year, and we look forward to his continued success this year and in the future.”
2nd Star: Siamion Marshchanok, F, Austin Bruins
3rd Star: Gavin Hruza, F, Austin Bruins
East Star of the Week: Andrei Nikolaev - New Jersey Titans
East Division Star of the Week: Andrei Nikolaev, Goaltender, New Jersey Titans
As one of the youngest players in the league, Andrei Nikolaev is making a name for himself between the pipes. The Moscow, Russia native featured back-to-back shutout performances over the weekend. Starting on Friday night, the Boston University commit picked up his first home shutout of the season against the Johnstown Tomahawks. The ‘09 netminder turned away all 18 shots on net. He helped to lift his team to a 2-0 victory against the Tomahawks. Moving into Saturday night, the 16-year-old extended the Titans' win streak to five-straight games with a 13-save shutout. New Jersey secured a 4-0 victory and a series sweep against Johnstown.
The 6-foot-4 goaltender has dominated in the blue paint for November. He is currently riding a four-game win streak between the pipes and has featured 170 consecutive minutes of shutout performance over the past three games. He has stopped all 55 shots over the past three matchups. Right now, he ranks fourth overall in the league with his 2.24 goals-against average and fifth overall with his .927 save percentage. Nikolaev's defensive dominance has helped him to sit tied second overall in the league with 10 wins between the pipes. Over the summer, the Moscow, Russia native was drafted in the inaugural NAHL Futures Draft.
Head coach of the Titans, George Haviland, explains how impressed he has been with Nikolaev this season.
"Andrei continues to make the routine and timely saves the team needs to win hockey games. The kid is like no other goalie I have seen before in terms of his ability to be prepared to play at any moment. He’s always ready, never gets rattled, and continues to play great hockey for the New Jersey Titans. He is a real prospect not only at the college level, but as a 16-year-old, his maturity is off the charts in terms of preparing for practicing and games"
2nd Star: Illja Nikitins, G, Philadelphia Rebels
3rd Star: Harrison Smith, F, Maryland Black Bears
Midwest Star of the Week: Teddy Richardson - Wisconsin Windigo
Midwest Division Star of the Week: Teddy Richardson, Forward, Wisconsin Windigo
A T1ER alumnus of the CarShield program, Teddy Richardson showed up big on the scoresheet for the Windigo over the weekend. The 6-foot-1 skater kicked off his offensive domination on Wednesday night against an in-state rival, the Janesville Jets. Richardson would first provide a primary assist on Riley Joslin’s first goal of the season in the second period of the game. The St. Louis, Missouri native would then score short-handed, securing the game-winning goal in the third frame for Wisconsin. The Nanooks commit would go on to have a career-high night on Friday night against the Chippewa Steel. The third-year NAHL veteran showcased a four-goal performance, scoring every goal in Wisconsin’s 4-2 victory. He would first get the scoring started in the opening frame with a tally midway through the frame. Heading into the second period, he would give Wisconsin a 2-1 lead with a power-play tally at the 1:49 minute mark. The Show Me State skater would show off his offensive prowess once again by finding twine late in the third period to provide the game-winning goal for the Windigo. His night would not end there; Richardson would go on to score one more time with an empty net goal at the buzzer.
Between the two games, the 6-foot-1 righty featured five goals and one assist. His critical play-making for Wisconsin is why he is the top scorer on his team. The ‘06 skater features a team-leading 12 goals and 28 points on the season. Right now, the 19-year-old is on a four-game point streak that started on his birthday, November 21, 2025.
Head coach of the Windigo, John Mitchell, shares his excitement for Richardson.
“That’s great news. We are happy for him. That line has been very good for us over these last stretch of games. When he’s playing 200-foot hockey and playing the game the correct way, he’s very hard to play against.”
2nd Star: Landon Greenough, D, Anchorage Wolverines
3rd Star: Oliver Barna, F, Fairbanks Ice Dogs
South Star of the Week: Andrej Paricka - Corpus Christi IceRays
South Division Star of the Week: Andrej Paricka, Forward, Corpus Christi IceRays
The 6-foot-3 lefty hailing from Poprad, Slovakia, Andrej Paricka, spotlighted a career-high performance over the weekend with the IceRays. The 20-year-old kicked off his dominant weekend on Friday night at the American Bank Center. Paricka is a recent acquisition for the IceRays, being traded from the Shreveport Mudbugs a few weeks ago. The third-year NAHL veteran tallied his first goal with the IceRays midway through the first period on the power play. Following that, Paricka notched an assist on Justin Thibault’s tally in the second frame. His offensive prowess continued to shine in the final frame, where he would score his second and third goals of the night. He first finds the back of the net around the 12-minute mark in the third period to tie up the contest 3-3. He would then secure his first career hat trick with a short-handed empty-netter at the buzzer of the final period. This Friday night performance featured a career-high four-point performance, and it was done in his first home game as an IceRay.
Moving into Saturday night, Paricka secured a two-point performance. He would first provide an assist on Easton Swift’s game-winning goal in the final frame before tallying a goal for himself with 55 seconds left in the contest. For the weekend, the Slovakian tallied four goals while making two assists in his first home games as an IceRay.
Head coach of the IceRays, Kevin St. Jacques shares what it is like to have Paricka on the team.
“Andrej has been good for us coming over. He brings a calming energy to our locker room, and obviously, his hockey IQ on the ice has helped our team immensely. He and his linemates have gelled, and they had a good weekend statistically, which helped us with two wins against a very good hockey team.”
2nd Star: Jackson Potulny, F, El Paso Rhinos
3rd Star: Justin Thibault, F, Corpus Christi IceRays
Bauer's Stars of the Week Week of November 24, 2025
Central Star of the Week: Matthew Martin - Aberdeen Wings
Central Division Star of the Week: Matthew Martin, Forward, Aberdeen Wings
Earning his hat trick of Central Division Star of the Week awards, Matthew Martin spotlighted another dominant weekend on the ice and on the scoresheet. The 6-foot-6 skater featured a five-point weekend for the Wings on their road trip to Bismarck. On Friday night, the Montreal, Quebec native tallied two primary assists on Easton Edwards’ goals. With his help on the ice, he kept Aberdeen tight in the contest with the Bismarck Bobcats. Moving into Saturday night, the second-year veteran recorded his third two-goal performance of his season. His offensive prowess was featured in the last 10 minutes of the second period. He first tallied the eventual game-winner at the 9:19 minute mark. Martin would go on to produce an assist on Finn Safir’s first goal of the year six minutes later, before scoring the final goal of the matchup with a power-play tally with less than two minutes on the clock.
The 20-year-old notched two goals while producing three assists against the Bismarck Bobcats. He is the only player in the league to have been named a Star of the Week award three times. The 6-foot-6 lefty has shown up on the scoresheet in 18 out of 21 contests this season. Martin leads his roster with 36 total points on the year, scoring a team-leading 14 goals and 22 assists.
“Matthew continues to lead by example; he does not seem to take a weekend off,” said head coach of the Wings, Scott Langer. “He is a big contributor to our team’s success.”
2nd Star: EJ Paddington, F, Austin Bruins
3rd Star: Easton Edwards, F, Aberdeen Wings
East Star of the Week: Adam Gionta - Rochester Jr. Americans
East Division Star of the Week: Adam Gionta, Forward, Rochester Jr. Americans
The Niagara University commit, Adam Gionta, was crucial in the Jr. Americans’ scoring over the weekend. The third-year veteran featured a five-point weekend against the Maine Nordiques. On Friday night, the 5-foot-8 forward tallied a goal and an assist on Keanan Dewberry’s power-play goal. The Jr. Americans would fall 4-3 to the Nordiques; however, Gionta’s offensive prowess helped to keep the contest tight. Moving into Saturday night, Rochester was looking for revenge from Friday night’s loss, and the 20-year-old would feature his third three-point performance of the season. Gionta would first tally a goal midway through the second frame. He would then go on to provide a power-play assist on Konner Powell’s goal four minutes later. Heading into the final frame, the Nordiques had a third-period push, tying the game 3-3. With less than 10 minutes left in regulation, Gionta would go on to score the game-winning goal, his second of the season.
The New York native scored three goals and made two assists against Maine. The third-year veteran played a role in every goal except one in each game against the Nordiques, and he featured a +4 rating from the two games. He currently ranks second overall on his roster with 1.15 points per game this season. Gionta has also played a total of 146 games in the NAHL over three seasons.
Head coach of the Jr. Americans, Francois Methot, explains what it means to see Gionta return to the lineup.
“After being out of the lineup for a few weeks, Adam returned energized and delivered a strong weekend, helping us earn a split in a very intense two-game series against Maine. His offensive contributions—including the game-winning goal in the second game—combined with his commitment to playing a complete, two-way game made a significant impact.”
2nd Star: Andrei Nikolaev, G, New Jersey Titans
3rd Star: Harrison Smith, F, Maryland Black Bears
Midwest Star of the Week: Sam Evert - Anchorage Wolverines
Midwest Division Star of the Week: Sam Evert, Forward, Anchorage Wolverines
After being hyped up by his linemate and last week’s Midwest Division Star of the Week on Today in the NA, Sam Evert featured a season-high performance over the weekend with the Wolverines. The 6-foot lefty first showcased a two-point game on Friday night. The 20-year-old notched an assist on Luc Bydal’s goal in the opening frame. Evert would go on to tally his second power-play goal of the season six minutes into the second period. Anchorage would eventually fall to the Fairbanks Ice Dogs; however, the Wisconsin native played a critical role in keeping the contest tight for the Wolverines. Heading into Saturday night, the second-year veteran sported a season-high four-point performance. Evert scored his first goal of the night midway through the opening frame. As the game moved into the second period, the 6-foot skater was a crucial part in the offensive spark and response that the Wolverines needed to win the game. Heading into the second frame, Fairbanks featured a 4-2 lead. The Wolverines raged and lit the lamp four times. Evert first produced a power-play assist on Bowen Burke’s goal at the eight-minute mark. Less than two minutes later, the alternate captain provided an assist on Luc Bydal’s goal to give the Wolverines the lead. With 2:38 on the clock in the second, Evert went on to score his second goal of the night. Anchorage would win the game 7-6 in overtime, and Evert was a big part of their success.
For the weekend, the alternate captain scored three goals while making three assists. His offensive production had been huge in November, with him showing up on the scoresheet in seven out of eight games played in November.
Head coach of the Wolverines, Mike Aikens, explains his team’s excitement for Evert.
“Our whole team was hopeful Sam would be named player of the week. He’s a great leader, one of our hardest workers, and he’s been our best two-way forward all season. He’s been a huge part of our team’s growth and success.”
2nd Star: Massimiliano Monson, F, Kenai River Brown Bears
3rd Star: Amir Valiullin, G, Springfield Jr. Blues
South Star of the Week: Troy Hunka - El Paso Rhinos
South Division Star of the Week: Troy Hunka, Forward, El Paso Rhinos
Leading his team in almost every offensive category, Troy Hunka secures his second South Division Star of the Week honors with his weekend performance. Starting on Friday night, the first-year skater spotlighted a three-point performance for the Rhinos. The 5-foot-11 righty first secured a goal midway through the second frame to give El Paso the lead. The Ohio native would then provide a primary assist on Ian Kastamo’s goal seven minutes later. The 19-year-old secured his second assist of the night on Kastamo’s goal again, this time in the final minutes of the game. Hunka helped El Paso to a 6-3 victory over Shreveport. Moving into Saturday night, the ‘06 forward strikes first with a power-play goal at the 17-minute mark in the first period. Hunka would later on in the matchup secure an assist in the third frame on Ethan Woolcott’s tally in the final minutes of the game. The Rhinos would eventually fall 4-3 in shootout fashion, but Hunka’s offensive ability has been crucial in El Paso’s success.
For the weekend, the 19-year-old featured a five-point weekend with two goals and three assists. For November so far, Hunka has featured five multiple-point contests and has shown up on the scoresheet in every game for the month.
Head coach of the El Paso Rhinos, Mike Rivera, explains more about Hunka’s contribution to the team.
“It’s great to see Troy earn this honor for the second time this season. His offensive production has been crucial to our team’s success. This five-point weekend in Shreveport continued his 12-game point streak, which is tough to do in this league, especially in the South Division. We hope he continues to produce at this rate. Also, his 200-foot game is always an impact on our lineup.”
2nd Star: Vladislav Bryzgalov, G, Corpus Christi IceRays
3rd Star: Sean Smith, D, New Mexico Ice Wolves
Bauer's Stars of the Week Week of November 17, 2025
Central Star of the Week: Jibber Kuhl - Aberdeen Wings
Central Division Star of the Week: Jibber Kuhl, Forward, Aberdeen Wings
Third-year veteran of the Wings, Jibber Kuhl, played a critical role in helping Aberdeen secure three out of four points over the weekend. Starting on Friday night, the 6-foot-2 lefty spotlighted his second two-goal performance of the year. The Minnesota native tallied his first goal in the opening period at the 2:14 minute mark, responding to North Iowa’s early lead. As the contest progressed with both sides trading goals, the Wings were down 4-3 heading into the final nine minutes of the third period. Kuhl was able to tip in the game-tying goal, helping to keep his team in the game. As the matchup moved into extra minutes and an eventual shootout. The Wings would fall to North Iowa in shootout fashion; however, they would secure a point for divisional standing purposes. Heading into Saturday night, Aberdeen was hungry to respond to the previous night’s loss. The 20-year-old would be the first Wing to light the lamp in the contest, following North Iowa’s early goal in the opening frame. With Aberdeen trailing 2-1 heading into the final 20 minutes, the Wings got to work. Kuhl scored a little over seven minutes into the period, notching the game-winning goal for his team. Aberdeen would secure a 4-2 victory over North Iowa, and Kuhl played a vital role in doing so.
The alternate captain sported a four-goal weekend while notching his first game-winning goal of the year. The 6-foot-2 forward features 17 points over 19 games played this year. Kuhl has also laced up for the Wings in 115 games.
Head coach of the Wings, Scott Langer, explains more about Kuhl’s work ethic.
“Jibber's all work mentality is starting to pay dividends. He is a gifted player in all aspects of the game.”
2nd Star: Cooper Williams, F, Bismarck Bobcats
3rd Star: Matthew Martin, F, Aberdeen Wings
East Star of the Week: Nikita Oleksiienko - Johnstown Tomahawks
East Division Star of the Week: Nikita Oleksiienko, Goaltender, Johnstown Tomahawks
Hailing from Dnipro, Ukraine, Nikita Oleksiienko played a vital role in the Tomahawks’ sweep over the weekend against the Elmira Aviators. The ‘08 netminder made his third start on Friday night for Johnstown. Oleksiienko allowed one early Elmira goal and never looked back. He turned away 27 out of 28 shots, helping to lift his team to a 2-1 overtime victory. The T1ER alumnus went into Saturday night not as the starting goaltender. Oleksiienko came off the bench to start the third period. Just like the night before, the 17-year-old allowed one early Elmira goal and never looked back. As the game was tied 3-3 in the third frame, Oleksiienko turned away seven shots on net, helping to force the game into overtime. In the extra minutes, Johnstown captain Nick Jarmain secured the game-winning goal for his team. Thanks to the young 6-foot-1 goaltender, Johnstown earned back-to-back wins against the Aviators. Oleksiienko spotlighted a 1.43 goals-against average and a .951 save percentage from the weekend.
Head coach of the Tomahawks, Adam Houli, dives into detail on Oleksiienko's raw ability.
“Nikita had a great weekend that helped us secure four points in an extremely tight division. He is a very strong goaltender who is very hard to beat. He has great fundamental skills and also has the ability to make saves that change the outcome of games and create momentum shifts. He is going to get stronger and stronger as the year goes on.”
2nd Star: Brayton Frick, F, Philadelphia Rebels
3rd Star: Corson Maguire, F, Rochester Jr. Americans
Midwest Star of the Week: Luc Bydal - Anchorage Wolverines
Midwest Division Star of the Week: Luc Bydal, Forward, Anchorage Wolverines
Leading the way in goal-scoring in the league and for the Wolverines, Luc Bydal spotlights another offensively dominant weekend. The 6-foot-2 lefty played a role in every goal on Friday night against the Wisconsin Windigo. He first helped Chase Trompeter’s goal with a set-up between him and his little brother, Rylan Bydal. 20 seconds later, the North Dakota native went on to tally a goal himself to give Anchorage the 2-0 lead. Following that lead, Wisconsin was able to score three goals between the first and second period to give them the lead heading into the final minutes of the second frame. The 20-year-old went on to score the game-tying goal with a SportsCenter-worthy between-the-legs goal. As the matchup moved into the third frame, both teams traded chances; however, it forced the game to move into extra minutes and an eventual shootout. Luc Bydal scored in the shootout; however, the Wolverines would fall to the Windigo in a 4-3 shootout fashion.
Moving into Saturday night, the Wolverines were looking to rage, and they did just that. Anchorage initially played from behind, and after that short-lived lead by Wisconsin in the opening period, it was all the Wolverines. Bydal notched an assist on his little brother’s goal at the 2:35-minute mark in the first frame. Moving into the second period, the North Dakota native tallied his 17th goal of the year, this one on the power play. With the help of Bydal on the ice, Anchorage would win 4-1.
Luc Bydal is in his second season playing in the North American Hockey League. His offensive prowess puts him at the top of the leaderboards. Right now, he leads skaters with 17 goals on the year. He ranks first on his roster with 29 points on the season. Over the weekend, the 6-foot-2 lefty tallied three goals, made two assists, and featured a +3 rating.
Head coach of the Wolverines, Mike Aikens, shares more on how great of a weekend Bydal featured.
“Luc had another great weekend, having scored five points. He is a hockey player and he is a rink rat who loves to compete and he loves to score goals. Luc leads the league with 17 goals, but he is also becoming a more responsible player on the defensive end of the rink.”
2nd Star: Max Kogler, G, Chippewa Steel
3rd Star: Amir Valiullin, G, Springfield Jr. Blues
South Star of the Week: Leo Isaksson - Lone Star Brahmas
South Division Star of the Week: Leo Isaksson, Forward, Lone Star Brahmas
Hailing from the hockey-rich nation of Sweden, Leo Isaksson featured a standout five-point performance over the weekend. Friday night showcased Isaksson showing on the scoresheet once, thanks to a primary assist on Vincenzo Capano’s game-winning goal. Moving into Saturday night, that is when all eyes were on the 20-year-old. The 6-foot forward tallied Lone Star’s first goal of the contest in the opening frame. Following his lone goal, Isaksson got to work and notched three assists. He produced two assists in the second frame, one on the penalty kill. The ‘05 skater would go on to secure his final assist on Gustav Lexell’s power-play goal in the final period. He played a role in four out of five goals scored on Saturday night against the Corpus Christi IceRays.
Isaksson skated away with a five-point weekend and played a vital role in helping his team sweep the Corpus Christi IceRays. The ‘05 Swede ranks first on his roster in about every category. He leads in goals (7), assists (17), and total points (24). He additionally spotlights 1.41 points per game.
Head coach of the Brahmas, Dan Wildfong, went into detail on Isaksson’s contributions to the team.
“Leo has been a top player since joining Lone Star. He keeps getting better offensively and defensively. His 200-foot game continues to grow. We are excited to see him continue his pursuit of a Division I commitment.”
2nd Star: Nayan Pai, F, New Mexico Ice Wolves
3rd Star: Daniel Rassega, F, Amarillo Wranglers
Bauer's Stars of the Week Week of November 10, 2025
Central Star of the Week: Fuji Suzuki - North Iowa Bulls
Central Division Star of the Week: Fuji Suzuki, Forward, North Iowa Bulls
Hailing from Tokyo, Japan, Fuji Suzuki showed off his offensive prowess on Saturday night against the reigning Robertson Cup champions. The 5-foot-10 righty played a critical role in the Bulls' 5-4 victory over the Bismarck Bobcats. The contest kicked off with the ‘05 forward helping to set up Denis Kuzmenkov’s power-play goal in the first period. Suzuki would even the score in the second frame. with his first short-handed goal of the season. Moving into the third period, North Iowa was playing from behind when Bismarck tallied a goal at the 14:28 minute mark. Less than four minutes later, Suzuki finds the back of the net again to even the game 4-4. With Suzuki helping to force the game into extra minutes, he came in clutch again, helping his teammate, Vitaliy Korolyuk, score in overtime, thanks to his primary assist. The second-year veteran finished his night with a career-high four-point game. He tallied two goals and two assists, playing a role in every goal except one.
For the year, Suzuki leads his roster with his 20 total points and 1.25 points per game. The 20-year-old from Japan has played on the world stage, skating for Japan’s U20 team, and was one of the top scorers on his team last year.
Head coach of the Bulls, Nick Bruneteau, explains more on the impact of Suzuki on the scoresheet and his ability to be coachable.
“Fuji had a great weekend for us. He found ways to contribute in all areas and was a catalyst in Saturday’s win. He’s an easy player to coach, and plays a mature team-first game. We expect him to continue to produce and lead like he has so far this season.”
2nd Star: Junior Podein, F, Watertown Shamrocks
3rd Star: Mike Malatino, F, North Iowa Bulls
East Star of the Week: Konner Powell - Rochester Jr. Americans
East Division Star of the Week: Konner Powell, Forward, Rochester Jr. Americans
Featuring a three-goal weekend for the Jr. Americans, Konner Powell helped to lift Rochester to a sweep over the Northeast Generals. The 5-foot-9 righty from Tennessee secured his first goal of his junior career on Friday night. He found the back of the net late in the second frame, thanks to a set-up by Corson Maguire and Gavin Carr. Heading into Saturday night, the ‘07 forward tallied a career-high two-goal performance. He first found the back of the net in the opening frame at the 11:40 minute mark. He goes on to score his second goal in the middle period in the final minutes of the period. His offensive production was critical in helping Rochester secure points against the Northeast Generals.
The 18-year-old has made an impact on the scoresheet in five out of six games played this season. He currently features three goals and three assists on the season.
2nd Star: Alex Lunski, F, Philadelphia Rebels
3rd Star: Michal Tkac, D, Rochester Jr. Americans
Midwest Star of the Week: Nathan Tobey - Janesville Jets
Midwest Division Star of the Week: Nathan Tobey, Defenseman, Janesville Jets
The 20-year-old from the Lone Star State, Nathan Tobey, was a critical key in the Jets’ success for the weekend. The 6-foot blueliner kicked off his weekend with an overtime win on Friday night. Tobey found the back of the net on the man advantage in the third period to help keep the Jets in the contest. He then went on to provide an assist on the overtime game-winning goal for Janesville. Heading into Saturday night, the blueliner featured a two-point contest, helping to lift the Jets to a dominant 5-1 victory. Tobey first shows up on the scoresheet when he finds the back of the net quickly in the second period with a power-play goal at the 18:26 minute mark. The Texas native goes on to provide an assist on Joseph Hyten’s power-play goal six minutes later.
The first-year Jet leads blueliners on his roster with 11 total points and three goals. All three of his tallies have been scored on the man advantage. Tobey is the second Janesville Jet to earn Midwest Division Star of the Week honors this season.
Head coach of the Jets, Lennie Childs, dives into detail on Tobey’s development and the maturity he brings to the team.
“Nate is hitting his stride in all facets of his game. He brings a level of maturity that makes him a calming, reliable leader for us on the defensive corps. He has always been a smart and skilled player, and he has added the confidence piece to his game. The points he is getting are a byproduct of his dedication to development and the standard of detail he brings to the ice every day.”
2nd Star: Jackson Ernst, F, Wisconsin Windigo
3rd Star: Luc Bydal, F, Anchorage Wolverines
South Star of the Week: Ethan Woolcott - El Paso Rhinos
South Division Star of the Week: Ethan Woolcott, Forward, El Paso Rhinos
Making a statement on the scoresheet over the weekend, Ethan Woolcott sports an eight-point performance over two games. The 5-foot-11 lefty hailing from the Golden State, Woolcott kicked off a dominant weekend on Friday night against the Corpus Christi IceRays. The 20-year-old got the scoring started in the first period thanks to a tally at the 14:46 minute mark. The contest featured both teams battling back and forth, and it looked like the IceRays were heading to a 4-3 victory until the last minute of the game. With 32 seconds on the clock, Woolcott and his teammates got to work. El Paso’s Ian Kastamo found the back of the net thanks to a set-up by Woolcott and Chase Nyitray. With the matchup moving into extra minutes, the Rhinos were looking to keep their winning ways alive at their home rink. Ironically, helping his teammate score in the first 32 seconds of overtime, Woolcott notches a primary assist on Tommy Shore’s game-winning goal. The Rhinos would earn a 5-4 overtime victory and head into game two looking to secure another win. On Saturday night, that is when Woolcott featured a career-high performance. The San Diego, California native tallied five assists in the matchup. He notched three assists in the opening frame and went on to secure an assist in each of the following two periods. The Rhinos skate away with a huge 9-3 win.
The ‘05 skater produced a goal while notching seven assists against the Corpus Christi IceRays. For the season, Woolcott is tied first on his roster with 25 total points on the year. He sits alone at the top with his 19 assists for the season.
Head coach of the Rhinos, Mike Rivera, explains more about Woolcott’s contributions to the team.
“Wooly has been dynamic for our team all season. He plays in every situation and consistently leads by example with his detailed 200-foot game and offensive contribution. His seven assists this weekend are a testament to how he drives offense, which included a two-zone pass on the tape for Friday’s game winner. It was great to see him point well, and we expect him to continue to be an integral piece of our team this season.”
2nd Star: Troy Hunka, F, El Paso Rhinos
3rd Star: Brock Fairbanks, F, New Mexico Ice Wolves
Bauer's Stars of the Week Week of November 3, 2025
Central Star of the Week: Matthew Martin - Aberdeen Wings
Central Division Star of the Week: Matthew Martin, Forward, Aberdeen Wings
The 6-foot-6 lefty who is earning his second Central Division Star of the Week honors, Matthew Martin, spotlighted a four-point weekend against a tough Bismarck roster. The second-year veteran kicked off his weekend on Friday night at the Odde Ice Center. He first got to work helping to set up Easton Edward’s goal in the first period, notching a primary assist less than a minute into the contest. As the matchup moved into the third period, the Wings were working from behind. With less than four minutes on the clock, Martin tallied a game-tying goal on the penalty kill, helping to keep Aberdeen’s hopes alive. The Wings would eventually fall to the Bobcats in overtime, but his offensive production in crucial moments kept his team in the game. Moving into Saturday night, the contest was tied 1-1 heading into the third period, and Martin notched the game-winning goal on the power play with 12:28 on the clock. He then went on to notch another primary assist on Edward’s goal in the final 32 seconds of the matchup.
The Montreal, Quebec, Canada native tallied two goals and two assists over the weekend. He has shown up on the scoresheet in 13 out of 15 contests this season. His offensive production has almost doubled from last season to this year. He currently leads his team with 25 points on the year, spotlighting 10 goals and a team-leading 15 assists. Martin features a +13 rating in his final year of junior hockey. The ‘05 forward is the only player in the NAHL so far to earn two Star of the Week honors.
Head coach of the Wings, Scott Langer, shares more on the impact Martin has on the game.
“Matthew has been so consistent with his game this season. He changes games at big times and always seems to rise to the occasion.”
2nd Star: Vitaliy Korolyuk, F, North Iowa Bulls
3rd Star: Noah Ziskie, D, Bismarck Bobcats
East Star of the Week: Blake Jones - New Jersey Titans
East Division Star of the Week: Blake Jones, Defenseman, New Jersey Titans
Answering the phone night after night, Blake Jones served as the backbone for the Titans last week. The 5-foot-9 righty showed up big from the blue line over his last three games. Kicking things off on Tuesday night, the Titans were facing off with a red-hot divisional leader, the Maryland Black Bears. Maryland was riding a 10-game win streak heading into the midweek contest, and Jones played a crucial role in helping to defeat the Black Bears. The matchup featured the captain securing a career-high four-point performance. He notched two back-to-back assists on the power play in the second period. Jones went on to set up Nikolas Doumas’ goal, producing his third assist of the night. The ‘05 blueliner was incredibly clutch in overtime. He found the back of the net on the man advantage with 46 seconds on the clock. The Titans secured a big 6-5 overtime victory. Heading into Friday night, the captain helped to keep New Jersey’s hopes alive against the Northeast Generals. The Generals featured a 3-0 edge over the Titans heading into the final 10 minutes of the game. That is when Jones got to work from the blue line, helping to set up two goals in the final minutes. He first secured a power-play assist at the 8:48 minute mark before notching an assist with less than a minute on the clock. New Jersey would fall to Northeast in a 3-2 fashion; however, Jones was crucial in their offensive production. Moving into Saturday night, the Generals had the Titans’ number while securing a big 7-2 win. However, like the night before, Jones played a critical role in keeping New Jersey in the contest. He first notched a primary assist on Arseniy Zharikov’s goal in the first period before helping set up Kristofers Krumins’ goal in the second period.
Jones spotlighted a huge eight-point performance over the three games. He secured an overtime game-winning goal while producing seven assists. He notched a +4 rating from the three games as well. The Canadian leads all defensemen in the NAHL with 24 points on the season. His ability to produce assists ranks him second among all skaters in the NAHL with 22 on the year.
Head coach of the Titans, George Haviland, shares more of his thoughts on Jones.
“Blake is the leader of our group! He has had a tremendous start to the 2025-26 season. Jonesy makes plays every time he has the puck. He is a difference maker every time he goes over the boards in every situation. His defending skills are superb; combined with his offensive abilities, it makes him a threat every time he’s on the ice on either side of the puck.”
2nd Star: Zach Buffone, D, Elmira Aviators
3rd Star: Cole Roenick, F, New Hampshire Mountain Kings
Midwest Star of the Week: Luca Ricciardi - Fairbanks Ice Dogs
Midwest Division Star of the Week: Luca Ricciardi, Forward, Fairbanks Ice Dogs
Leading the charge on the scoring party, Luca Ricciardi featured a huge eight-point performance against the Chippewa Steel. Kicking things off on Thursday night, the captain spotlighted a two-point performance in the Ice Dogs’ 5-1 victory. He first secured a power-play goal in the opening period that would be named the eventual game-winning goal. Following that, the 6-foot-1 lefty produced a primary assist on Alex Hall’s goal in the second. Heading into game two on Friday night, the third-year veteran spotlighted a three-point performance. He got the scoring started in the matchup when he tallied a power-play goal in the first period at the 10:29 minute mark. Five minutes later, the Thunder Bay, Ontario native tallied a power-play assist on Kyle Rohrer’s goal. He finished off his night with another power-play assist, this time in the third period, on Rohrer’s goal. Fairbanks secured a decisive 4-1 victory over the Steel. Finally, moving into Saturday night, the ‘05 skater notched another three-point performance. Ricciardi kicks things off with a goal in the first period that would eventually be named the game-winning goal. He then goes on to tally a power-play goal in the second period at the 10:20 minute mark. Finally, in the third frame, he secured a power-play assist on Rohrer’s goal, for the third time this past weekend. The Ice Dogs produced a big 6-1 victory and a sweep on the weekend at the Big Dipper Ice Arena.
The captain spotlighted four goals and four assists on the weekend. Ricciardi was effective on the power play; three of his goals and three of his assists were scored on the man advantage. For the year, the 20-year-old ranks first on his team with 10 goals, 19 total points, and his +12 rating.
Head coach of the Ice Dogs, Dakota Bell, dives into detail on Ricciardi’s leadership skills on and off the ice.
“Luca receiving this recognition is terrific news, as he embodies what Fairbanks Ice Dog hockey is all about. From the moment he arrived in Fairbanks, Luca has been a team-first guy and a leader in our locker room. He plays the game the right way and is committed to doing what the team needs to have success. Being our captain, Luca knows that the spotlight is on him every day, and he has done a tremendous job in leading our team. Lots of our early-season success can be attributed to him winning faceoffs, shutting down opponents, and helping our special teams, all while holding the locker room accountable. This past weekend, Luca stuffed the stat sheet and contributed with points on power play, even strength, and game-winning goals. We are excited to see him continue to have success as he works towards earning a Division I scholarship.”
2nd Star: Chase Trompeter, F, Anchorage Wolverines
3rd Star: Niko Laus, F, Springfield Jr. Blues
South Star of the Week: Kevin Jones - Odessa Jackalopes
South Division Star of the Week: Kevin Jones, Goaltender, Odessa Jackalopes
The South Lyon, Michigan native, Kevin Jones, owned the weekend for the Jackalopes. The ‘05 netminder produced his first back-to-back wins of the season in overtime and shootout fashion. His weekend kicked off on Friday night for Odessa’s home opener. The 6-foot-3 goaltender battled in the blue paint, turning away, at the time, a career-high 43 shots. His dominance between the pipes helped to lift his team to a 3-2 overtime victory against the Mudbugs. Moving into Sunday afternoon, Jones was named as the starting goaltender for the Jackalopes. Odessa was in a tight matinee matchup with the El Paso Rhinos. As the game moved into extra minutes and eventually to a shootout, Jones kept his composure in the blue paint, helping to secure his team the win. He stopped a career-high 49 shots on Sunday, securing his team the 3-2 shootout victory.
The Michigan native featured a 1.92 goals-against average over the weekend and spotlighted a .958 save percentage. He secured both victories in extra minutes, marking his first overtime and shootout victory of the year. He additionally faced a total of 96 shots on the weekend, making 92 saves.
Head coach of the Jackalopes, Scott Deur, shares how much of an asset Jones was this past weekend.
“Kevin had a great weekend for us and allowed us to win in overtime and a shootout. He’s been getting better every week and giving us a chance to win every game that he has played. As an organization, we are happy to see his hard work pay off with this star of the week.”
2nd Star: Jonah Jasser, F, Shreveport Mudbugs
3rd Star: Caden Ghiossi, F, Odessa Jackalopes
Bauer's Stars of the Week Week of October 27, 2025
Central Star of the Week: Alex Sandhu - St. Cloud Norsemen
Central Division Star of the Week: Alex Sandhu, Forward, St. Cloud Norsemen
`The 6-foot-2 skater from Delta, British Columbia, Canada, Alex Sandhu featured a six-point weekend for the Norsemen. Starting things off on Friday night, the second-year veteran played a role in every goal scored by St. Cloud. Sandhu tallied his first goal of the night at the 12:39 minute mark in the first frame. He then went on to be the primary assist on Sam Crane’s goal in the second period. His offensive work continued into the third period, where he tallied his second goal, this time on the man advantage. Less than four minutes later, he provides the set-up on William Esterbrook’s game-tying power-play goal. The Norsemen would eventually fall to the North Iowa Bulls in overtime; however, his offensive prowess kept St. Cloud fighting in the contest. Heading into Saturday night, the ‘05 forward tallied his second power-play goal of the season during the second period of the matchup. Sandhu would continue to show up on the scoresheet with an assist on Tanner Hunt’s goal at the 5:49 mark in the middle frame. The Norsemen would secure a 4-3 victory over North Iowa on home ice.
Sandhu featured a career-high four-point game on Friday night. He tallied three goals while making three assists during the weekend series. The second-year veteran currently ranks first on his roster with 19 points and 13 assists. Additionally, the 6-foot-2 skater has shown up on the scoresheet for the Norsemen in 12 out of 13 games this season.
Head coach of the Norsemen, Joe Exter, explains the impact of Sandhu on their team’s weekend performance.
“Alex played strongly all weekend and demonstrated how he is one of the top players in the league. Each shift, he was determined to drive the team. He did this all weekend, helping our team earn three points.”
2nd Star: Matthew Martin, F, Aberdeen Wings
3rd Star: Brody Dietz, D, North Iowa Bulls
East Star of the Week: Tanner Duncan - Maryland Black Bears
East Division Star of the Week: Tanner Duncan, Forward, Maryland Black Bears
Showing up big on the scoresheet for the Black Bears, Tanner Duncan played an integral role in Maryland’s success last week. On Tuesday afternoon, the Alternate Captain was the primary assist on Brady Anes’ goal in the first period. Maryland secured a 2-0 shutout victory against the Philadelphia Rebels. Moving into Friday night, the 5-foot-11 lefty played a role in every goal except one in the Black Bears’ 4-1 victory over Johnstown. Duncan first found the back of the net in the first period at the 14:06 minute mark. He then continued to show up offensively for the team by producing an assist on Dominik Boltnar’s goal in the second frame before he found the back of the net again in the last minute of the middle period. Moving into Saturday night, the ‘05 second-year veteran produced another three-point contest for his team. He first tallied a goal at the 6:37 minute mark in the first period to help extend Maryland’s lead over Johnstown. He then provided the primary assist on Jaden Sikura’s and Ryan Franks’ goals in the second and third periods. Maryland secured a 5-2 victory and extended their win streak to 10 straight games.
Duncan found the back of the net three times last week, while producing four assists for the Black Bears. He features a +7 rating from the three-game performance and is currently tied in first on his roster with eight goals on the season.
Head coach of the Black Bears, Clint Mylymok, shares more on Duncan’s dedication to development.
“Tanner has been an absolute horse for us this season. He is extremely talented and has the desire and drive to be a high-end player in this league. Every game, we can put him anywhere, in any role, and he will be one of our best players. Congrats to Tanner on this well-deserved honor.”
2nd Star: Lukas Fursten, G, Maine Nordiques
3rd Star: Austin Borgaard, F, Maine Nordiques
Midwest Star of the Week: Zach Howard - Springfield Jr. Blues
Midwest Division Star of the Week: Zach Howard, Forward, Springfield Jr. Blues
The Army-West Point commit, Zach Howard, played an integral role on and off the ice for his team this past weekend. Serving as the Captain of the Jr. Blues, the fourth-year veteran featured a career-high weekend against the Janesville Jets. Starting on Friday night, the 6-foot-1 forward produced two assists in the Jr. Blues' 4-2 victory over the Jets. His first assist helped to give Springfield the lead heading into the second period, while his second assist was notched on Niko Laus’ short-handed goal in the third frame. Moving into Saturday night, the ‘05 skater from Wisconsin showed off in his home state, putting up a career-high game. He first secured a game-tying assist in the first frame on Niko Laus’ goal at the 9:08 minute mark. He then went on to give the Jr. Blues the lead in the second period with another primary assist, this time on Logan Sutton’s goal. As the contest moved into the third period, the teams were tied at two. While on the man advantage, Howard secures a goal to give his team a short-lived lead against Janesville. The Jets would tie up the matchup a few minutes later, forcing the contest to head into extra minutes. The Jr. Blues would eventually fall 4-3 in shootout fashion; however, the Captain played a role in every goal scored in regulation.
Over the weekend, Howard scored a power-play goal while notching four assists in the two-game series. Right now, the fourth-year Springfield veteran leads his roster with 12 points on the season, with all five of his goals scored for the season done on the man advantage.
Head coach of the Jr. Blues, Todd Pococke, dives into detail on Howard’s work this season.
“Zach has been playing very well for us so far this season. Not only has he been great offensively, but he’s been strong defensively as well. He’s also been a great leader both on and off the ice, and excited to see what he can do the rest of this year.”
2nd Star: Grant Dillard, F, Janeville Jets
3rd Star: Alexios Georgaklis, F, Wisconsin Windigo
South Star of the Week: Vladislav Bryzgalov - Corpus Christi IceRays
South Division Star of the Week: Vladislav Bryzgalov, Goaltender, Corpus Christi IceRays
Hailing from the Garden State, Vladislav Bryzgalov featured a stellar performance between the pipes for the South Division team. The 6-foot-1 netminder kicked off his weekend on Friday night with a 19-save performance against the Shreveport Mudbugs. The contest was tight with Shreveport finding the back of the net once when Jared Grenier scored a goal on the power play. Heading into game two on Saturday night, the second-year goaltender again only allowed one goal from the Mudbugs. He turned away 28 out of 29 shots in the contest before the game eventually moved into a shootout. In a back-and-forth battle between the teams, Bryzgalov helped to lift his team to a 2-1 shootout victory, securing a weekend sweep over the Mudbugs.
For the weekend, he featured a 0.96 goals-against average and spotlighted a .959 save percentage. After this series against the Mudbugs, it marked Bryzgalov’s third shootout win while playing in the blue paint for his team this season.
Head coach of the IceRays, Kevin St. Jacques, shares more on Bryzgalov’s contribution to the team.
“Vlad has put in the work this summer and is a big part of our club. He has been playing at a very high level the last few weeks. We are proud to see his work be rewarded and are excited for his continued development.”
2nd Star: Ian Kastamo, F, El Paso Rhinos
3rd Star: Nick Puricelli, F, Odessa Jackalopes
Bauer's Stars of the Week Week of October 20, 2025
Central Star of the Week: Matthew Martin - Aberdeen Wings
Central Division Star of the Week: Matthew Martin, Forward, Aberdeen Wings
The 6’6 lefty from Montreal, Quebec, Canada, Matthew Martin featured an impactful performance for the Wings over the weekend. The ‘05 skater kicked off Friday night at the Mason City Arena. Martin showed up big on the scoresheet with a three-point performance. He secured two power-play assists on Owen Pitters’ goals in the first period, and he finished off his night scoring his first short-handed goal of the season with 1:42 left on the clock. Aberdeen walked away with a dominating 8-4 victory over North Iowa.
Moving into Saturday night, the second-year veteran was crucial in keeping Aberdeen in the matchup. In the first frame, he produced an assist on Easton Edwards’ goal. Following that early goal, North Iowa was able to tally three goals to give them a 3-1 lead. The Canadian helped to tighten up the contest in the third frame with a power-play goal at the 14:14 minute mark in the game. The Wings would eventually fall 3-2 to the Bulls; however, Martin’s ability on the ice was noticed.
The ‘05 lefty ended his weekend with five total points, and his offensive prowess is prevalent through the start of the year, because he has shown up on the scoresheet in nine out of the 11 games played this season.
Head coach of Aberdeen Wings, Scott Langer, shares his thoughts on Martin.
“Marty is a very talented hockey player that puts a lot of time into his game. He is a difference maker every night!”
2nd Star: George Poirier, F, Bismarck Bobcats
3rd Star: Owen Pitters, F, Aberdeen Wings
East Star of the Week: Braydon Hudtloff - Northeast Generals
East Division Star of the Week: Braydon Hudtloff, Forward, Northeast Generals
The 18-year-old from the Old Dominion, Braydon Hudtloff, featured an offensively dominant weekend with the Generals. On Friday night, the 5’10 righty featured a career-high six-point performance. Northeast secured a 7-5 victory over the Danbury Hat Tricks, and Hudtloff had the magic touch, contributing to every goal except one during the matchup. He tallied a goal while making five assists, showing up big on the scoresheet.
Moving into Saturday night, the ‘06 skater replicated his performance by contributing to every goal except one for the Generals. Heading into the third period, the Generals were down 3-1. With five minutes on the clock, Hudtloff got to work. He first found the back of the net at the five-minute mark. The Virginia native comes in extremely clutch to equalize the contest with another goal at the 20-second mark. Those back-to-back goals kept the Generals alive and helped them take the game into extra time. As the contest eventually moved into a shootout, the 5’10 righty came in clutch once again. He finds the back of the net in the shootout and secures Northeast a 4-3 win and a sweep over the Danbury Hat Tricks.
The second-year veteran spotlights eight points from the two games, thanks to his three tallied goals and five assists. He additionally featured a +6 rating from the weekend. This year, Hudtloff ranks as one of the top skaters in the league, currently tied in second with 24 total points.
Head coach of the Generals, Bryan Erickson, dives into detail on the impact and success he has seen from Hudtloff.
“Braydon has had an incredible amount of success recently. It feels like every time his line is on the ice, they score a goal. But it is his work away from the puck that is exceptional. He just plays the game the right way in all three zones. He has been fantastic, and his play was a huge reason that we were able to win both games this weekend against a very good Danbury team. His third period was amazing on Saturday. He scored when there were five minutes left, 15 seconds left to tie it, and then again in the shootout. It was a huge performance when his team needed it most.”
2nd Star: Lukas Fursten, G, Maine Nordiques
3rd Star: Adam Gionta, F, Rochester Jr. Americans
Midwest Star of the Week: Jakeb Lynch - Minnesota Wilderness
Midwest Division Star of the Week: Jakeb Lynch, Forward, Minnesota Wilderness
The 5’9 righty from Nebraska, Jakeb Lynch, clinched the Midwest Division Star of the Week honors thanks to a dominant performance over the weekend. Lynch is a second-year veteran of the Wilderness and showed up big on the scoresheet starting Friday night. The contest kicked off with the Wilderness lighting the lamp five times in the first period. The Miami University commit notched a power-play assist on Noah Dziver’s goal before finding the back of the net himself on the man advantage. His offensive dominance showed up again in the third period, where he secured another power-play assist, this time on Talan Blanck’s goal, before he delivered the last goal of the matchup at the 11-second mark. Thanks to his help, Minnesota secured a 9-1 victory over the Chippewa Steel.
Heading into Saturday night, the Northwoods Credit Union saw another huge win by the Wilderness. Lynch tallied a power-play goal in the second period. Later on in the contest, he went on to secure another power-play assist on Talan Blanck’s goal during the third period. Minnesota featured a 7-1 victory over Chippewa and currently features the longest win streak in the league at eight consecutive wins.
The ‘07 forward has only hit the ice in seven games this season, with five of them as multiple-point games. He tallied three goals and three assists from this past weekend’s series while notching his first two power-play goals of the season.
Head coach of the Wilderness, Zach Stepan, explains what it means to have Lynch on the roster.
“As much as we love getting Jakeb back from the USHL, and he has jumped right in to help us win games, he is proving why he was in the USHL in the first place. He is an extremely smart hockey player with elite vision and an elite release that is allowing him to continue his scoring prowess. I also have a ton of respect for the fact that when he did come to us, he just put his head down and went to work. It is no surprise that he is getting rewarded for it.”
2nd Star: Teddy Richardson, F, Wisconsin Windigo
3rd Star: Kyle Rohrer, F, Fairbanks Ice Dogs
South Star of the Week: Kyle Sorensen - Oklahoma Warriors
South Division Star of the Week: Kyle Sorensen, Forward, Oklahoma Warriors
Soaring to the top of the South Division, Kyle Sorensen featured a career-high weekend with the Oklahoma Warriors. The 5’9 righty from Council Bluffs, Iowa helped his team dominate the Amarillo Wranglers. Starting on Friday night, Sorensen notched his second two-point game of the year with a goal and a power-play assist. Thanks to his work on the ice, the Warriors secured a big 7-2 win against the Wranglers. Moving into Saturday night, the ‘06 forward notched a career-first, a hat trick. The contest kicked off with Oklahoma firing on all cylinders, notching five goals in the first frame. Sorensen first produced an assist on Chance Burlison’s goal at the 12:29 mark. He then goes on and tallied back-to-back goals with his first goal scored at the 4:34 mark and then his second goal scored a minute and a half later. Sorensen and the Warriors pick back up their scoring in the third period where Sorensen secures his track less than a minute into the final frame. Less than 20 seconds later, the 19-year-old secures a power-play assist on William-Francisco Parent’s goal. Oklahoma notches a 7-1 victory over Amarillo and walks away with a sweep on the weekend.
Sorensen is an alumnus of the T1ER, playing for the Omaha Mastery for two seasons. His seven-point weekend was huge for the Warriors veteran. He tallied four goals and three assists in two games played. Right now Sorensen leads his team with eight goals on the year and sits in second with 14 total points.
Head coach of the Warriors, Mick Berge, shares his excitement for Sorensen.
“Kyle is very deserving of this award and we could not be happier for him. He has consistently been a player we rely on offensively every night. He has committed to working on all areas of his game and is being rewarded on the scoresheet for all of his hard work.”
2nd Star: Leo Isaksson, F, Lone Star Brahmas
3rd Star: Ben Likeness, F, Oklahoma Warriors
Bauer's Stars of the Week Week of October 13, 2025
Central Star of the Week: Noah Ziskie - Bismarck Bobcats
Central Division Star of the Week: Noah Ziskie, Defenseman, Bismarck Bobcats
The 6’2 righty from Macomb, Michigan, Noah Ziskie, spotlights a four-point weekend with the Bobcats. Starting on Friday night, the Bobcats exploded offensively in their 9-1 victory over the St. Cloud Norsemen. Ziskie showed up on the scoresheet in the third period of this Friday night contest. He first notched a power play assist on Cooper Williams' goal at the 15:21 mark before finding the back of the net himself nine minutes later. That goal marked his second of the season.
Moving into Saturday night, Ziskie’s offensive ability in the final frame was shown off again. Heading into the third period, the Bobcats were down 3-1 against the Norsemen. After a power play goal by St. Cloud, the Michigan native halved the Norsemen’s lead to 4-2 with his goal at the 9:51 mark. He then went on to notch an assist on Charlie Kresl’s goal with less than three minutes on the board. The Bobcats would eventually fall to the Norsemen 4-3; however, Ziskie’s ability to help his team battle back from a large 4-1 deficit is why he would be named the Central Division Star of the Week.
Ziskie finished his weekend with two goals and two assists. He currently rides a three-game streak of notching a goal and an assist in each contest.
Head Coach of the Bobcats, Garrett Roth, shares more on Ziskie’s ability on the blue line.
“Noah has done a great job helping lead our defense core this season. He has been really responsible for us defensively and brings a tenacity and edge every day in practice. It was awesome to see him rewarded offensively this weekend with how impactful he has been for us in all situations.”
2nd Star: Will Esterbrooks, D, St. Cloud Norsemen
3rd Star: Drake Maresca, F, North Iowa Bulls
East Star of the Week: Jon Dukaric - Danbury Hat Tricks
East Division Star of the Week: Jon Dukaric, Goaltender, Danbury Hat Tricks
The first-year netminder from Slovenia, Jon Dukaric, showed off his dominance between the pipes for the Hat Tricks over the weekend. On Friday night, Dukaric spotlighted a season-best performance against the Philadelphia Rebels. The 6’3 goaltender stopped 24 out of 25 shots, allowing only one third-period goal in the contest. The Hat Tricks secured a 2-1 victory thanks to his work in the blue paint. Heading into Saturday night, Dukaric had another season-high performance. He stopped 39 out of 41 shots, marking the most shots faced in one game. Thanks to his help in the net, Danbury notched a 3-2 win against Philadelphia and the Hat Tricks’ first weekend sweep of the season.
For the weekend, Dukaric spotlighted a .954 save percentage and a 1.50 goals against average. These back-to-back victories are the ‘05 netminder’s first consecutive wins of the season as well.
Head Coach of the Hat Tricks, Lenny Caglianone, explains what he saw from Dukaric.
“Jon was stellar in net. He provided us consistency throughout the weekend, and his maturity allowed us to weather the storm at times. He continues to grow each game and has become a dangerous force in net.”
2nd Star: Nick Jarmain, F, Johnstown Tomahawks
3rd Star: Ryan Shaw, F, Rochester Jr. Americans
Midwest Star of the Week: Noah Dziver - Minnesota Wilderness
Midwest Division Star of the Week: Noah Dziver, Forward, Minnesota Wilderness
Hailing from Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, Noah Dziver featured another offensively dominant weekend during Wilderness’ road trip in Alaska. The 6’0 righty showcased a three-point performance on Thursday night against the Anchorage Wolverines. The ‘05 forward first registered an assist on Zach Homer’s goal in the second frame before notching his own two goals in the period. His first goal in the contest was notched at the 3:49 mark. Less than two minutes later, he delivered a power play goal at the 1:35 mark. The Wilderness secured a 9-2 victory over the Wolverines. Heading into Friday night, the Wilderness continues their winning ways with a 4-3 victory. The second-year veteran, Dziver, produced an assist late into the first period on Caleb Kim’s goal.
Rounding out his Alaska road trip on a high note, Dziver spotlights another three-point performance on Saturday night, and his offensive prowess was featured in the second period of the contest. Dziver first finds the back of the net on the man advantage for the Wilderness and then delivers a shorthanded game-winning goal two minutes later in the middle frame. He would then show up on the scoresheet again with an assist on Zach Homer’s goal at the 3:06 mark in the same period.
Dziver currently rides a seven-game point streak and featured a seven-point performance against Anchorage. He tallied four goals and three assists over three games at the Sullivan Arena. Also, the ‘05 righty currently leads his team with 19 points on the season.
Head Coach of the Wilderness, Zach Stepan, explains the impact Dziver has had on the Minnesota roster.
“Dziver has been a driving force since day one of this season, helping us get to where we are in the standings right now. The way he handles himself both on and off the ice, and his willingness to do the intangible things daily, are why he is producing at the rate he is. He continues to prove why he is one of the top players in the league right now, and I look forward to watching him continue to progress!”
2nd Star: Zach Homer, F, Minnesota Wilderness
3rd Star: Drew Berres, D, Springfield Jr. Blues
South Star of the Week: Carter McKay - Shreveport Mudbugs
South Division Star of the Week: Carter McKay, Forward, Shreveport Mudbugs
Third-year Shreveport veteran, Carter McKay, played an influential role on the Mudbugs roster over the weekend. Kicking things off on a high note on Friday night, the 5’10 lefty produced a career-first, a hat trick. He showed up on the scoresheet quickly in the first frame with a power play goal scored in the first minute of the game. The ‘05 lefty went on to score another goal in the first period, but this time shorthanded. As the game progressed, the Corpus Christi IceRays were able to find the back of the net and tighten up the contest. Heading into the final frame, the Mudbugs were tied with the IceRays 4-4. In the final 10 minutes of the game, McKay logged his third goal of the contest, shorthanded again. With his work, he helped to lift his team to a 6-4 victory.
Heading into Saturday night, the Mudbugs played from behind in the contest. With Corpus Christi taking a 2-1 lead heading into the third period, Shreveport had to battle. At the 16:05 mark in the third frame, McKay notched an assist on Evan Hoglund’s game-tying goal. The contest eventually would head into a shootout, and the Mudbugs would fall to the IceRays 3-2.
McKay’s offensive prowess was on display this past weekend. The Alternate Captain spotlighted a four-point performance and has shown up on the scoresheet for the Mudbugs in eight out of 10 contests played this season. He additionally leads his roster with 12 points on the year.
Head Coach of the Mudbugs, Jason Campbell, explains how important McKay has been for Shreveport.
“Carter has been a difference maker since day one this year. He impacts every game and practice that he is a part of. If he’s not getting points, he’s defending well and killing penalties. If the team needs some energy, he’s defending well and ups his physical game by winning battles. Carter is a full-package player, and it’s been on display for some time now. He’s off to a great start!”
2nd Star: Sam Lussier, F, Lone Star Brahmas
3rd Star: Vladislav Bryzgalov, G, Corpus Christi IceRays
Bauer's Stars of the Week Week of October 6, 2025
Central Star of the Week: Carter Sproule - Watertown Shamrocks
Central Division Star of the Week: Carter Sproule, Forward, Watertown Shamrocks
Leading the team on the scoresheet and in the locker room, Carter Sproule featured a standout performance over the weekend against the Minot Minotauros. Sproule is the Captain of the Shamrocks and is a third-year veteran of the NAHL. On Friday night, the 6’3 skater notched two goals and an assist against the North Dakota team. He found the back of the net within the first minute of the contest for the Shamrocks and then produced an assist 10 minutes later on Junior Podein’s goal. Moving into the second period, Sproule recorded his first power-play goal of the season and helped to even up the contest 3-3 against the Tauros. The Shamrocks would eventually fall 5-3 to Minot, but the North Dakota native’s offensive prowess was shown off during the matchup.
Moving into Saturday night, the ‘05 forward played a vital role on the scoresheet again. He first notched a goal for the Shamrocks with less than 30 seconds on the clock in the first period. Sproule went on to register his second power play goal of the season in the third frame to tie up the contest 2-2. The matchup eventually moved into a shootout, and Sproule was the hero again and scored a goal in the shootout.
His offensive dominance was evident in Prairie Lakes Ice Arena, and he played a role in every goal scored by the Shamrocks. His five-point weekend featured a total of four goals in two games. Sproule extends his point streak to six-straight games, and he now leads his roster with five goals, seven assists, and 12 total points. His weekend performance spotlights a +4 rating on the weekend.
Head Coach of the Shamrocks, Casey Kirley, explains what he has seen from Sproule.
“Carter has been both a great player and leader for us since he arrived in Watertown last season. He impacts the game in many ways, including his physicality, playmaking, and goal-scoring abilities. He is also a natural leader, whom others look up to and try to emulate. We are grateful to see Carter be rewarded for his efforts this past week and look forward to his continued success throughout the season.”
2nd Star: Eddie Revenig, D, Bismarck Bobcats
3rd Star: Nathan Williams, D, Austin Bruins
East Star of the Week: Harrison Smith - Maryland Black Bears
East Division Star of the Week: Harrison Smith, Forward, Maryland Black Bears
The second-year veteran, Harrison Smith, played a crucial role in the Black Bears' success against the Maine Nordiques. The Sacred Heart commit notched his first career hat trick on Friday night. Smith got the scoring started quickly in the first period, notching his first goal within the first two minutes of play. He then found the back of the net again in the first frame with a goal in the final three minutes of the period. The 19-year-old sealed his hat trick with a goal in the second frame. His offensive prowess helped Maryland secure a 6-1 win against Maine.
Heading into Saturday night, the 5’9 forward from Florida kept the scoring going. He first finds the back of the net, scoring his first power play goal of the season in the first period. Smith goes on to notch two primary assists during the contest, allowing the Black Bears to secure a 3-2 overtime win.
Smith currently rides a six-game point streak and is one of the top skaters in the league. The veteran is currently tied for first in the league with 15 total points and spotlights 2.14 points per game. The Florida native sports a four-goal and two-assist performance from the weekend.
Head Coach of the Black Bears, Clint Mylymok, explains more about Smith’s hot start this season.
“Smitty has had a great start and is extremely motivated to be a dominant player this year. His leadership and competitive drive set him apart from a lot of players. He consistently wants to be a difference maker for us. We are lucky to have Harrison and look forward to seeing what he has in store for us, each and every day he puts on the Black Bears jersey!”
2nd Star: Will Mizenko, G, Northeast Generals
3rd Star: Johnny Conlin, F, Philadelphia Rebels
Midwest Star of the Week: Oliver Barna - Fairbanks Ice Dogs
Midwest Division Star of the Week: Oliver Barna, Forward, Fairbanks Ice Dogs
The 5’11 lefty from Hungary, Oliver Barna, sports a stellar weekend for the Ice Dogs. Starting on Friday night, the second-year veteran spotlighted a career-high two-goal performance against the Windigo. Barna notched both goals within five minutes of each other in the first frame. The ‘06 forward then went on to produce an assist on the final goal of the Ice Dogs’ 5-2 victory.
Heading into Saturday night, Barna produced his first power play goal of the season with six seconds left on the clock in the middle frame. His work on the ice helped the Ice Dogs secure a 3-0 shutout win against the Windigo. The skater ended his weekend with three goals and an assist.
Head Coach of the Ice Dogs, Dakota Bell, dives into detail on the impact of Barna this weekend.
“Oliver is fully deserving of this recognition as he had an outstanding week. For us, everything starts with getting better in practice, and Oliver put in the work this past week to set himself up for a good weekend. This allowed him to reap the rewards as he collected three goals and an assist. He was a difference maker in each game against a strong Windigo team as he contributed on power play, penalty kill, and even strength.”
Bell explains more about the work ethic he has seen from the 5’11 forward.
“Oliver is someone who shows up to work every day with a purpose to get better and does so with a great attitude. As a second-year Ice Dog, Oliver knows what it takes to get the job done in our league, and we look forward to his further contributions towards our team's success.”
2nd Star: Rylan Bydal, F, Anchorage Wolverines
3rd Star: Mason McElroy, G, Fairbanks Ice Dogs
South Star of the Week: Jack L’Esperance - Odessa Jackalopes
South Division Star of the Week: Jack L’Esperance, Defenseman, Odessa Jackalopes
The 20-year-old from Howell, Michigan, Jack L’Esperance, moved to the blue line and is showing up big on the scoresheet. The 5’11 righty on Friday night notched an assist for the Jackalopes on the first goal of the contest. Odessa would eventually fall 5-4 in overtime to the IceRays. Moving into Saturday night at the American Bank Center, the third-year NAHL veteran played a vital role in the Jackalopes' success on the ice. The ‘05 skater first produced a power play assist on Caden Ghiossi’s goal in the second frame. L’Esperance then found the back of the net with 48 seconds left in the second period and sealed the eventual decider for the Jackalopes. His scoring did not finish in the middle frame. The Michigan native went on to score the final goal of the contest while notching his first power play goal of the season in the third period.
The ‘05 blueliner featured a four-point weekend with a two-goal and two-assist performance.
Head Coach of the Jackalopes, Scott Deur, shares more on the development of L’Esperance.
“Jack has really improved weekend to weekend since we moved him back to defense. His offensive ability has always been there and helped us this weekend, but his improvement in the defensive zone and learning when to jump into plays has been really special to watch. He had timely plays and timely goals, which helped us get three out of four points this weekend. He’s only getting better day by day.”
2nd Star: Nicolas Rempel, G, Lone Star Brahmas
3rd Star: Trenton Peterson, G, Amarillo Wranglers
Bauer's Stars of the Week Week of September 29, 2025
Central Star of the Week: Siamion Marshchanok - Austin Bruins
Central Division Star of the Week: Siamion Marshchanok, Forward, Austin Bruins
The 5’9 lefty from Minsk, Belarus, Siamion Marshchanok, was incredibly dominant on the ice during the NAHL Showcase. Marshchanok is a first-year skater in the League of Opportunity and plays alongside his twin brother, Matsvei Marshchanok. His offensive production has been tremendous throughout the first five games of the season, especially at the Showcase. On Wednesday, the ‘05 skater tallied back-to-back goals in the second period, with one scored on the power play, while the following notched a shorthanded goal. The Bruins fall to Janesville 3-2, but Marshchanok's offensive prowess carries into the next contest.
On Friday, Marshchanok continued his scoring frenzy with a two-goal and three-assist performance against the Maine Nordiques. His five-point performance saw him score one of his goals on the man advantage and another one shorthanded. Moving into Saturday afternoon, the Belarus native scored two goals on the power play against the Minnesota Wilderness. His offensive production was highlighted by notching a total of six goals and three assists over three games.
Marshchanok features a league-best 2.4 points per game and has scored five power-play goals. He is also tied in first in the league with eight goals on the season.
Head Coach of the Bruins, Steve Howard, explains the impact of Marshchanok on the roster.
“Siamion is a difference maker for us, and he showed it in each of our first five games. He’s a dedicated person both on and off the ice. We are excited to see what the future holds for both Siamon and his twin brother, Matsvei!”
2nd Star: Owen Pitters, F, Aberdeen Wings
3rd Star: Junior Podein, F, Watertown Shamrocks
East Star of the Week: Emerson Marshall - Johnstown Tomahawks
East Division Star of the Week: Emerson Marshall, Forward, Johnstown Tomahawks
The 5’10 lefty from the Bay State, Emerson Marshall, showed off his offensive prowess at the Greatest Show on Ice! Starting on Thursday, the former Lone Star Brahma skater understands what it is like to compete in South Division play. Marshall kept the Tomahawks alive in the second and third periods by tallying his first career hat trick. He scored two of those goals on the man advantage and helped to take the game into overtime. While the Tomahawks might have fallen 4-3 to New Mexico, he helped to secure a point for East Division standings purposes.
Heading into Friday, the ‘05 lefty showed up big on the scoresheet with a two-goal and an assist performance. He tallied his first goal shorthanded in the second period and then found the back of the net in the third on the man advantage. His second goal was named the decider in the contest, and his work on the ice helped Johnstown secure a 4-3 victory over the Norsemen.
On the final day of the Showcase, Marshall produced an assist on Nick Jarmain’s goal in the 4-2 win over the Wisconsin Windigo. The forward has six-straight games of showing up on the scoresheet and currently leads the league with 13 points on the year.
Head Coach of the Tomahawks, Adam Houli, went into detail on what he saw from Marshall’s performance at the Showcase.
“Emerson was fantastic all week. He played a complete 200-foot game, and his work ethic helped us secure five out of six points. He stepped up and scored timely goals while also playing stout defense. He believed in the team message all week, and he was rewarded handsomely. He was so fun to watch, and I expect his game to continue to rise.”
2nd Star: Nick Jarmain, F, Johnstown Tomahawks
3rd Star: Vladimir Pechenin, G, Elmira Aviators
Midwest Star of the Week: Hans Hedlund - Janesville Jets
Midwest Division Star of the Week: Hans Hedlund, Forward, Janesville Jet
The 5’11 righty from the State of Hockey, Hans Hedlund, produced a career-high performance on Saturday morning. The ‘06 Minnesota native showed off in his home state during the Jets’ 8-0 shutout victory against the Maine Nordiques. Hedlund started his game with a goal in the first period and then another goal in the second period. Following that, the second-year veteran stepped up his offensive production and scored the final two goals of the contest in the third and notched an assist on Sean Truby’s goal. His five-point performance is a first in his career, and he helped to seal the sweep on the weekend for the Janesville Jets.
Head Coach of the Jets, Lennie Childs, explains more about the development he has seen from Hedlund from last season to this year.
“Hans is a high-motor player who has tons of skill and competes in his game. He started a mature progression of his game towards the end of last season and has carried it over with a great off-season and a really good start. We are very happy to see him succeed so early and know that he will continue his success with his intense work ethic and enthusiasm for the game.”
2nd Star: Kaenan Smith, G, Janesville Jets
3rd Star: Valdemar Anderson, G, Minnesota Wilderness
South Star of the Week: Troy Hunka - El Paso Rhinos
South Division Star of the Week: Troy Hunka, Forward, El Paso Rhinos
The 19-year-old from North Canton, Ohio, Troy Hunka, featured a six-point weekend for El Paso at the NAHL Showcase. Hunka is a first-year skater for the Rhinos, and starting on Wednesday, the 5’11 righty scored his first goal of the season late into the first frame. He then went on to notch an assist on Diago Hotta’s goal in the second, helping to tie up the contest. The Rhinos were able to keep the contest tight with the defending East Division champions, the Rochester Jr. Americans; however, they would fall 3-2.
Heading into Thursday, the Rhinos were facing off with the Kenai River Brown Bears. El Paso came out victorious with an 8-4 victory, and Hunka played a major role in their team’s success. He secured his second goal of the season while producing two assists for his team. As the Rhinos were riding high from their large-margin win, they went on to face another East Division team, the Philadelphia Rebels. The contest was tight, and Hunka assisted on the game-tying goal for the Rhinks. However, with less than four minutes on the clock, El Paso would fall 4-3 to Philadelphia’s late scoring effort.
Head Coach of the Rhinos, Mike Rivera, explains more on what he has seen from Hunka.
“Troy really had his coming out party this past week at the NAHL Showcase. He’s had a solid 200-foot game and driven offense with his line all season. He just hadn’t found the back of the net yet. It’s nice to see him find his rhythm and we are excited to see where he takes it from here.”
2nd Star: Brandon Catalano, F, Odessa Jackalopes
3rd Star: Sean Gibbons, F, New Mexico Ice Wolves
Bauer's Stars of the Week Week of September 22, 2025
Central Star of the Week: Mike Malatino - North Iowa Bulls
Central Division Star of the Week: Mike Malatino, Forward, North Iowa Bulls
The 20-year-old from the Empire State, Mike Malatino, played an influential role in North Iowa’s success against the Minot Minotauros over the weekend. The second-year veteran started his 2025-26 campaign with a bang on Friday night. The Bulls initially played from behind; however, in the first period, Malatino got the primary assist on North Iowa’s first goal by Korolyuk and then scored the game-winning goal moments later in the first frame. Following his two-point period, Malatino finds the back of the net again 30 seconds into the second period. North Iowa clinches the victory with a 5-1 performance.
Heading into game two on Saturday night, Minot was hungry to clinch a win at home. The contest was tight and with most of the scoring happening in the second frame. Malatino served as the primary assist for Denis Kuzmenkov’s goal and helped to lift the Bulls into a 5-4 shootout victory. The ‘05 skater features 2.0 points per game and spotlights a four-point performance over the weekend.
Head Coach of the Bulls, Nick Bruneteau, explains the impact Malatino has had on the team.
"Mike’s leadership, both on and off the ice, has put himself and our group in a position to succeed every weekend. His ability to produce on both ends of the rink was on full display this weekend, demonstrating the complete player he is. We look forward to his continued success this season.”
2nd Star: Beck Liden, G, St. Cloud Norsemen
3rd Star: Owen Pitters, F, Aberdeen Wings
East Star of the Week: Nick Jarmain - Johnstown Tomahawks
East Division Star of the Week: Nick Jarmain, Forward, Johnstown Tomahawks
Serving as the Captain of the Tomahawks, Nick Jarmain showed off his moves on the ice, helping his team sweep the Northeast Generals over the weekend. On Friday night, Johnstown was playing from behind, heading into the third frame, being down 4-3. However, the Tomahawks turned up the heat and showed off their offensive prowess with a five-goal period. Two of the goals were scored by the Captain, helping to lift his team to an 8-4 victory.
Moving into Saturday night, the ‘05 forward from the Garden State played a crucial role in the Tomahawks' victory. Jarmain first served as the primary assist on Emerson Marshall’s goal in the first period. However, with less than 30 seconds on the clock, the Tomahawks and Generals were tied 2-2. Jarmain finds the back of the net with 26 seconds on the clock, clinching the game-winning goal for Johnstown. His work over the weekend spotlights a four-point performance as a second-year veteran of the Tomahawks.
Head Coach of the Tomahawks, Adam Houli, dives into detail on Jarmain’s work on the ice so far this year.
“Nick had an excellent weekend for us, and it makes sense as he puts his game fully together. This weekend, he was poised, smart, and his work ethic was off the charts. He had timely plays and timely goals that propelled us to a sweep. He is only getting better and better day by day.”
2nd Star: Harrison Smith, F, Maryland Black Bears
3rd Star: Shane Tronoski, F, Johnstown Tomahawks
Midwest Star of the Week: Declan Burns - Wisconsin Windigo
Midwest Division Star of the Week: Declan Burns, Defenseman, Wisconsin Windigo
The 6’1 blueliner from Chicago, Illinois, Declan Burns, featured a three-point performance against the Kenai River Brown Bears. On Saturday night, Burns helped the Windigo show off their offensive prowess by notching three assists in the 5-1 victory. The 19-year-old is a second-year veteran of the Windigo. His three-assist game marks the first in his NAHL career and the second time he has spotlighted a three-point contest. With his prior experience in the league of opportunity, the blueliner is looking to lead his team to another Robertson Cup appearance and Midwest Division title.
Head Coach of the Windigo, John Mitchell, shares more on the development he has seen from Burns.
“This is very exciting news. With Deco, I think it was only a matter of time. He checks every box at the defensive position and does them very well. His skating ability sets him apart, and as the season continues on we expect his confidence to grow more and more. It’s still early, and we are excited to see what level he can take his game to.”
2nd Star: Michal Liscinsky, F, Minnesota Wilderness
3rd Star: Easton Cody, G, Wisconsin Windigo
South Star of the Week: Trent Peterson - Amarillo Wranglers
South Division Star of the Week: Trent Peterson, Goaltender, Amarillo Wranglers
Hailing from the state of Wisconsin and representing the Ladder of Development, Trent Peterson helped the Amarillo Wranglers clinch a sweep against the Shreveport Mudbugs. The ‘05 netminder started the series with his first NAHL win on Friday night. Peterson faced 29 shots, stopping 26 in the blue paint. His ability on the ice helped the Wranglers clinch a 4-3 victory against the Mudbugs.
Heading into Saturday night, the former Granite City Lumberjack netminder continued to show off dominance in the blue paint. Peterson allowed one goal in the first period when Shreveport was on the power play. However, after that, Peterson went lights out stopping 32 out of 33 shots by the Mudbugs. His ability in the net helped to lift the Wranglers to a 4-1 victory and clinching a sweep against the Mudbugs.
On the weekend, he spotlighted his first two wins in the NAHL, a 2.0 goals against average, and a .937 save percentage. After having a dominant year in the NA3HL with the Granite City Lumberjacks, Peterson signed a tender with the Amarillo Wranglers and has earned a spot on the roster.
Head Coach of the Wranglers, Michael Hill, dives more into detail on what it means to see Peterson’s hard work pay off.
“Trenton has really seized his opportunity. The hard work he has been putting in at practice is showing up in games. It’s been great to see his preparation pay off when it matters most.”
2nd Star: Andy Earl, F, New Mexico Ice Wolves
3rd Star: Leo Isaksson, F, Lone Star Brahmas
Bauer's Stars of the Week Week of September 15, 2025
East Star of the Week: Lukas Fürsten - Maine Nordiques
East Division Star of the Week: Lukas Fürsten, Goaltender, Maine Nordiques
Hailing from Trencin, Slovakia, Lukas Fürsten showed off his abilities between the pipes and aided the Nordiques to a weekend sweep over the Philadelphia Rebels. Starting on Friday night, the ‘05 netminder helped to lift the Nordiques to a 5-1 victory. He stopped 22 out of 23 shots. Heading into Saturday night, the 5’10 19-year-old got the call to play in the blue paint a little over a minute into the second frame. Fürsten gave up a lone goal at the 17:38 minute mark in the second period and then went on to turn away every other shot. The Nordiques were able to turn things around after being down 3-0, coming back to win the contest in a shootout. He stopped 22 out of 23 shots and helped to clinch a sweep with a 4-3 victory over the Rebels.
For the weekend, Fürsten featured a .957% save percentage and a 1.17 goals against average.
Head Coach of the Nordiques, Nick Skerlick, explains what it means to have Fürsten in the locker room and on the team.
"Lukas is no stranger to the East Division. He is an ideal leader for those who want to improve every day. Lukas is pretty methodical with his process and preparation each and every night, and being a late pick up for us, we are excited for him to back stop this team into another winning season in Maine. Lukas showing up for the season was a surprise. Lukas executed a championship mentality while leading the team to two wins."
2nd Star: Tate Pecknold, F, New Jersey Titans
3rd Star: Joseph Gasperko, F, Maine Nordiques
Midwest Star of the Week: Talan Blanck - Minnesota Wilderness
Midwest Division Star of the Week: Talan Blanck, Forward, Minnesota Wilderness
The 5’11 lefty from Wisconsin, Talan Blanck, played a vital role in aiding the Wilderness' opening weekend sweep over the Springfield Jr. Blues. Starting on Friday night, the Nanooks commit scored his first goal of the season and was able to find the back of the net shorthanded on the ice in the second period. He then went on to notch an assist on the game-winning goal by Zachary Homer in the final frame of the contest, helping the team clinch a 4-2 victory. His two-point game performance continued into Saturday night, where Blanck tallied two assists for the Wilderness' 6-2 victory over Springfield.
The ‘05 forward is a third-year veteran of the NAHL, playing two seasons with the Chippewa Steel. The Wisconsin native featured a four-point performance while notching a +2 rating for the weekend.
Head Coach of the Wilderness, Zach Stepan, shares more on what he has seen from Blanck this past weekend.
“It was great to see Talan get off to a strong start in his opening weekend back in the league. He played a key role throughout the weekend and consistently demonstrated why the expectations are so high for him to be a difference maker each night. Talan proved that with his performance and helped our team get out of the gates on the right foot.”
2nd Star: Kevin Lysohir, F, Chippewa Steel
3rd Star: Valdemar Anderson, G, Minnesota Wilderness
South Star of the Week: Andy Earl - New Mexico Ice Wolves
South Division Star of the Week: Andy Earl, Forward, New Mexico Ice Wolves
Hailing from the State of Hockey, Andy Earl featured a five-point weekend for the Ice Wolves. Earl is a third-year veteran of New Mexico, and starting on Friday night, the 6’0 forward scored the team’s lone goal against the Amarillo Wranglers. Moving into Saturday night, the Minnesota native tallied a goal and two assists for the South Division team’s 4-2 victory. The ‘05 skater rounds out his weekend on Sunday afternoon with an assist on the game-winning goal by Anton Malyshev.
The 20-year-old notched a league-leading five points over the weekend with two goals and three assists over three games played.
Head Coach of the Ice Wolves, Kyle McKenzie, dives into detail on Earl’s performance.
“Andy had a great weekend. He puts a lot of work into molding his game, and that shows. It’s no surprise Andy is off to a hot start.”
2nd Star: Nicholas Rempel, G, Lone Star Brahmas
3rd Star: Tyler Tsoukalas, F, Amarillo Wranglers



































